Robert William Swallow's Obituary
Robert William Swallow – Gone Fishing
Our hearts are broken as our father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Robert William Swallow, passed away October 1, 2016. Robert, also known as Bob or Bobby, was born August 2, 1938, in Fillmore Utah, to Robert O. and Carroll R. Swallow.
While his father was serving in the Navy, Bobby and his sister, Sherrill, lived with their mother and her parents, George and Emily Rowley, in Fillmore. These were happy and carefree years as they grew up playing outdoors with their friends and cousins. Bobby was particularly close to his cousin, Wayne Poulson, who passed away in 2008.
Bob taught himself at a very early age to sketch and paint, and he became a gifted artist. Although he was not an artist by profession, he certainly could have been. His artwork was memorable and treasured by many. He painted signs and murals for businesses across the state of Utah. Family members always anticipated the Holiday Season each year when Bob would paint festive holiday greetings on the windows of their homes and area businesses.
Bob loved to fish, and was a great fisherman. As a young boy he would fish in the streams and even ditches…anything that had water in it! He continued to fish throughout his life, and Rockport and Flaming Gorge held a special place in his heart. His sons, Todd, Kevin, and Chad will tell you that he was very protective of his favorite fishing spot, and sometimes took extreme measures in order to defend his secret fishing hole!
Bobby was an excellent dancer. His sister, Sherrill taught him how to jitterbug. The two of them participated in many dance competitions in high school. They would often go out dancing together, but nobody knew that this dynamic duo was actually a brother-sister dance team! Bob loved to impress the girls and to make them all want to be his dance partner. If you were lucky enough and if you were a good dancer, he made you the center of attention for everyone to admire!
Bob attended Granite High School and graduated from Olympus High School in 1956. Bob enlisted in the Navy, and served both on land and on sea. Bob was very proud of the work he performed as an Orderly at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital until he was injured on the job. His career included employment at Hafers Inc., Catalina Swimwear, Pyke Manufacturing, E&J Manufacturing, and Pinkerton.
In 1960, Bob married June Wade and they had two sons, Todd and Kevin. In 1975, Bob married Charlotte Duncan. His youngest son, Chad was born to this union. Bob and Charlotte later divorced. Shortly thereafter, Bob met Brenda Read, and they were married for nearly 30 years.
Bob enjoyed camping, fishing, bowling, dancing, shooting pool, playing baseball, and painting. He loved NASCAR, the San Francisco Giants, the San Francisco 49ers, cats, and Bob Ross the painter. He took great pride in maintaining a well-manicured yard. He loved green grass and beautiful roses. He was as protective of his yard as he was of his favorite fishing spot. Anyone who ventured too close would receive a stern warning from Bob!
He was charismatic and charming, and he was a great storyteller. Bob lived life on his terms, right up until the final moments of his life as he exhaled his last breath.
Bob’s survivors include his sons Todd, Kevin, and Chad; his stepdaughters Michell, Liz, and Deeann; and his sister Sherrill. He is also survived by several grandchildren and three nieces.
The family expresses its gratitude to all of those individuals who lovingly cared for Robert over the past two years. Special thanks to the angels at both Mt. Olympus Rehabilitation Center and Millcreek Home Health and Hospice.
“Love you, Pop.” Love, Todd
“Love you dad, and see you down the road my friend. Aloha Dad, and Mahalo.” Love, Kevin
“To my Dad, Robert Swallow: I love you and you will be forever missed. RIP Buddy.” Love, Chad
“See ya later, Hon! Love ya!” Love, Sherrill
“Rest in peace, Bob.” Love, Brenda
It was Bob’s wish to be cremated and to have his ashes scattered at his favorite place. A memorial service to celebrate and honor him will be held on Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at the Veterans Memorial Park 17111 South Camp Williams Road at 11:00 AM. All are welcome.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert ?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert ?
Share a story where Robert 's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?