Bob, as Robert was known to his friends, was a native of Poughkeepsie, New York. having been born there in 1944. He was raised and lived there until he joined the United States Air Force after graduation from high school. After his discharge from the Air Force after attaining the rank of Airman First Class (E-3) Bob moved to California where he lived until his passing. Bob was an Offensive Fire Control System Mechanic while on Active Duty.
Bob married the love of his life, Patricia Ann, in 1976.
Bob worked for 40 years at Cal Aurum, eventually becoming a part owner. Cal Aurum is a supplier of metal finishings for aerospace and the microelectronics market located in Huntington Beach.
Upon retirement, Bob and Patricia moved to Tehachapi to enjoy the peace and beauty of the mountains. Bob was an avid photographer and motorcyclist.
Bob is preceded in death by his bride, Patricia, Parents Evangeline Kenealy and Robert Butler Sr., daughter Trishalee Criss and son Eric Sanders. He is survived by his brother Raymond, sister Debra, daughters Shannon and Tobyanne. Additionally he has 14 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held at St. Jude In The Mountains Anglican Church in Tehachapi followed by internment at Bakersfield National Cemetery.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this military veteran. We will also be transporting his wife, Patricia who will be interned with her husband. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family from the church to Bakersfield National Cemetery. For those who would like to participate, please see the timetable.
Timetable for Friday, 14 November 2025:
1200 - Stage at St. Jude in the Mountain Anglican Church 1200 S Curry St, Tehachapi, CA 93561
https://maps.app.goo.gl/w3wn7tQYQxZ5nfV371210 - Mission Briefing
1215 - Flag Line as our hero is moved to the coach and KSU to Bakersfield National Cemetery
1245 - est. arrival at Bakersfield National Cemetery 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd, Arvin, CA 93203
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gQDaUbYJ4p3oLP6BA1351 - Flagline, service and Military Honors
Ride Captain
Jim Pops Davis US Army 1964-1970
Former Army Ranger Viet Nam 1966-1970.
LRRP - MOS 63B20/63C20.
661-221-3120
jdavisabajo514@yahoo.com
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, and you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire while driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent with honor and respect for our Heroes—no talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
