Robert Andrew "Bob" Vail

Robert "Bob" Andrew Vail

Palm Springs - Robert "Bob" Andrew Vail was born in San Francisco and adopted by loving parents Dan E Vail Sr. and Barbara M. Vail. Bob grew up in Rancho Mirage and attended school in Palm Springs, graduating Palm Springs High School in 1970. Bob met Janet Sigler in 1973 and they married in 1976 on Valentine's Day.

Bob worked as a labor foreman for Wessman Construction until his health forced retirement in 1984. He and his wife owned Desert Cyclery from 1986-1991. Bob was also a throws/track & field coach and weightlifting coach for Palm Springs High School from 1995-2016 when his health again forced his retirement. His love for the athletes gave him purpose and fulfillment, while his battle with rheumatoid arthritis progressed. Although his body limited what he was physically able to do, he continued to fight and persevere. A plaque dedicated to Bob in 2014 hangs in the high school weight room with the inscribed words, "It is impossible to defeat a man that never quits."

Bob is survived by his wife of 45 years, Janet, his daughter Jenny Moser, son Bobby (Kristen), and his granddaughters, Hannah, Olivia, and Kennedy; brothers Floyd (Leilani) of Colorado and Dan E Vail Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents. Due to COVID restrictions, private graveside services will be held at Desert Memorial Park. A memorial service is planned as soon as regulations allow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Palm Springs High School Athletic Department.