Robert James Rainey

Lifelong Horse Creek resident, Robert Rainey, passed away on January 8, 2026 at his home with his loving wife by his side.

Robert James Rainey was born to Clarence and Inez Rainey of Horse Creek on January 24th, 1952, in Yreka, California. He was raised with his three sisters in Horse Creek, where he would live to raise his own family. Growing up on the ranch, Bobby's childhood consisted of long summers putting up hay to feed cows in the winter, cowboying in the high country alongside his family, and he played a big role in restoring the family ranch following the infamous 1964 flood. As a young boy, Bobby could oftentimes be found playing with his trucks in the dirt, menacing with his cousin Gary and lifelong friend Andy Stone. He spent many hours visiting his Grandma Grace, and even learned to sew on her old treadle sewing machine.

Bobby graduated high school with the class of 1970, and after a year employed with the forest service, he found himself logging, working for Chick Lucas.

In 1980, Bobby fell in love with Trudy Callick, and they were married August 7th, 1982. The two became parents the summer of 1987. Laura would be the first of four children, with Charles born two years later in 1989, Casey in 1991, and Melinda to complete the family in 1993. By this time, Bobby was back on the ranch, working alongside his father, and raising his kids on the same soil he and his sisters had been the generation before.

In 2019, Bobby and Trudy became grandparents, and they found a new love one would dream about. With eight grandbabies and one on the way, Bobby felt like he was on top of the world; his grandkids were his pride and joy. He looked forward to spending his time with them, and held those moments close.

Robert Rainey was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of almost 44 years, his children: Laura Crowder of Montague, Charles (Meranda) Rainey of Horse Creek, Casey Rainey of Horse Creek, and Melinda (Hunter) Wheeler, of Montague; grandkids Rowyn (6), Grace (5), Hadley (4), Naomi (3), Jordie (3), Wesley (2), Jensen (1), Cora (4 months), and one arriving in May; he is also survived by his sisters Kathy Twidwell, Sandra Reid, Linda Isbell, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

Arrangements for Robert's Celebration of Life have been made for Saturday, January 24th at 1:00 p.m. at the Horse Creek Community Church.