Robert Harway

1932 - 2025

Dr. Robert Alan "Bob" Harway, MD, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, in San Luis Obispo, California, at the age of 93. A devoted physician, accomplished musician, and beloved family man, Bob led a life marked by service, passion, and dedication.

Born on September 11, 1932, in New York City, Bob started playing piano at the age of four. Bob moved to California and graduated from Hollywood High, where he played in a jazz band. He went on to attend the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), earning his undergraduate degree in 1954. He funded his education by performing at bar mitzvahs and jazz clubs. Driven by a calling to heal and serve others, he continued at UCLA Medical School and graduated in 1958 with his Doctor of Medicine degree.

Following medical school, Bob completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the Los Angeles County Hospital in 1963. That same year, he began his military service as a Captain in the United States Army, serving as an orthopedic surgeon in Fairbanks, Alaska until 1966. His time in the Army was a testament to his commitment to both country and medicine.

After completing his military service, Bob entered private practice in Bakersfield, California from 1966 to 1976. During this period, he also founded and operated an air ambulance service-an endeavor that combined his medical expertise with his passion for aviation. A certified FAA private pilot, Bob took great pride in using his skills as a pilot to extend care to those in need.

In 1976, Bob relocated to San Luis Obispo where he continued his orthopedic practice with Dr. French at French Medical Hospital. His career further expanded as he served as a staff orthopedic surgeon at the California Men's Colony from 1987 to 2000 and later at the Community Health Center of the Central Coast. In addition to clinical work, he contributed as a Qualified Medical Evaluator for the State of California Board of Workers' Compensation and served as a Quality Control Evaluator for the Medical Board of California.

Beyond medicine, Bob was a man of many talents and passions. A gifted jazz pianist, he performed professionally throughout his life and was an active member of the San Luis Obispo Jazz Federation. Music brought him joy and connection-a rhythm that echoed through every part of his life.

Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife Olga; children Elana (husband Mark Sada), Amy, Zoli, and Paula (husband Matt Walker); and grandchildren Kaila Walker Campos (husband Josiah), Luke Walker, Hannah Sada, Robert Sada, Natalie Sada, Catrina Sada and his great-granddaughter Isla Mae Campos. His legacy lives on through them-in their memories and stories shared across generations.

A man who wore many hats-physician, pilot, musician-but most importantly husband, father, and grandpa-Bob Harway lived fully with purpose and heart. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who hear his story.

We warmly invite you to join us on Friday, December 12th for a Memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Nativity of Our Lady Catholic Church, located at 221 Daly Ave, San Luis Obispo. The Mass will be followed by a Celebration of Life from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo. Please RSVP by emailing celebrate.robertharway@gmail.com if you plan to attend.