Robert Edwin Bottel

Robert Bottel Obituary

BOTTEL, Robert Edwin
Born March 30, 1913 in San Fernando, California. Died peacefully at his home in Sacramento, August 20, 2005, age 92. He was first our father, and then he became our friend. Dad to four, Grandpa to seven, Great-Grandpa to four, friend to everyone who met him. Photographer and quarantine inspector for the California Department of Agriculture. A WWII Army medic in occupied Japan, 1945-46. Devoted in marriage for 63 years to Helen A. Bottel, who has been awaiting his arrival for 6 years. Finally, eternally, together. How can we express how wonderfully talented this man was. From his photography, to writing, to metal sculpture, our Dad was quietly creative. He loved nature: camping, fishing and boating. But all of us will remember him most for his dry sense of humor. Dad recently said, "If I'd known I was going to live this long I would have stopped eating vegetables." He offered humorous answers to letters written to our Mom's nationally syndicated advice column. While writing about how to spice up a marriage, Mom asked what he would think if she met him at the door after work dressed only in plastic wrap. He replied, "Dang - leftovers again." On their 60th wedding anniversary we asked which it was - gold or silver. His reply, "I think its Rust." We are a family who has lost its mainsail. Dad, we will miss you, but it's been an incredible ride. Thank you for leaving us with your enduring love. Children, Robert Bottel (Jan McLaughlin), Rod Bottel (Judy), Sue Peppers (Cliff), and Kathy Bernhardt. Grandchildren, Matthew Bottel (SherriLynn), Mitchell Bottel (Janelle), Craig Bottel, Christine Dorius (Charlie), Bret Bernhardt, Aaron Peppers (Kerstin) and Jared Peppers. Great-grandchildren, Zoe, Griffin, Macy, & Tevis. A private memorial celebration will be held on a paddlewheeler river boat, floating down the Sacramento River. Yes Dad, we will serve rootbeer and sing "Home on the Range". Remembrances can be sent to Sacramento Wildlife Care Association, River Cats Independence Field or the American Cancer Society.

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Published by The Sacramento Bee from Aug. 25 to Aug. 26, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Bottel

4 Entries

Marianne Brick

September 3, 2005

I am saddened to hear of your loss. I knew Bob through Kathy, and his support of her work with Wildlife Care Association. He constantly gave material to Kathy to share some joke or incident that brightened our day and often left us smiling, and shaking our heads. He obviously loved his family and kept his sense of humor through it all. Even with the challenges of declining health, his life was rich in accumulated memories and joy. He will be deeply missed, but I am sure he has moved on to better things. We treasure the time we are given and are blessed with love that will always be in our hearts. The memories shared are now more precious, as we begin to accept that we must say good-bye. My heart goes out to all of you, and hope you find peace in his love.

Risa Jeanne

August 30, 2005

My heart and prayers go out to your family. Take care.

Allan H Galbreath MD

August 26, 2005

I am saddened to hear of Bob's death, but I am also glad to hear that he lived to the ripe old age of 92.

I had the privilege of caring for Bob, Helen and their family for years and get to know them very well.

They were a remarkable couple who loved their family and tried to live their lives to the fullest.

Bob had a wonderful sense of humor and dry wit. I can only imagine what Bob will say to Helen when he arrives in heaven, but I am sure they will be happy together forever.

Doc

Jan Owens

August 26, 2005

Dear Sue, Cliff and your entire family. Your Dad was a great man that I had the pleasure of knowing. Your mother and him were two of the most special people that I have ever met.

I lost my mother a couple of years ago...and a son just 10 months ago and know the pain you must be going through. But as you would say...they are in a better place and we'll all see them again some day.

Just remember, he's always here...In your hearts, close and near.

My family send you our love and prayers...

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