Robert Gene, “Bob” Groat of Springfield, Ore., passed away on May 9, 2022. A longtime resident of Eugene-Springfield, Bob is survived by his wife Marie of 44 years, brother Harry Groat of Klamath Falls, Ore. and sons Jeff Groat from Timnath, Colo., Steve Groat from Salado Texas, and Doug Groat from Salem Ore., and two stepchildren, Lorena Young and Wayne Warner, both from Springfield.
Bob was blessed with 10 grandchildren and a great-grandson. He is preceded in death by parents William and Opal Groat, and brothers Tommy and Earl Groat.
Born and raised in Grants Pass, Ore. Bob moved to Eugene in 1957 where he was employed in the trucking and transportation industry, first as a city driver and then proceeded into management and sales. He retired in 1995 after 38 years of service.
He then began traveling to Arizona during the winters and pursuing his many hobbies anywhere he could. Bob never met a person he would not help, with his infectious smile and kind words. He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, and restoring old farm tractors, showing them off at local summer parades. Bob was a jack-of-all-trades who could fix anything that was broken.
Affectionately known as “Mr. Philosopher” by his three sons, Bob always had an anecdote, phrase, or saying that fit any situation with both humor and sincerity. If you were fortunate to be given a nickname from Bob, you were a guaranteed friend for life.
He was the eternal optimist, always encouraging and lifting up others, especially mentoring and playing with his grandchildren. Bob lived life with grace, humor, and gentleness. Bob was a long-time member of the Eugene-Springfield Elks, Moose, and traffic clubs.
Bob dearly loved the beauty of the Oregon outdoors, often spending time in the high Cascades, or at the Oregon coast enjoying his pursuits. Friends and family will deeply miss Bob.
A memorial service is pending.
