Robert D. "Bob" Blackwell, Sr., 74, of Exeter passed away on March 31. He was born on Aug. 21, 1929 in Shawnee, Okla. and graduated from El Reno High School in 1948.
He moved to Visalia in 1977. He was a retired salesman who worked for Standard Brand Paint Co. for 21 years. He was also a rancher and owner of Happy Horse Stables.
He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
He earned his pilot's license at the age of 16 and had a lifelong love of flying. He was a loyal fan of the Visalia Oaks and the Fresno State Bulldogs.
He will be best remembered by his family for all the wonderful stories he so loved to tell.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Ella; seven children, Robert T. Blackwell and his wife, Mal Son of Tennessee, Debra Barquinero of Visalia, Beverly Abranko and her husband, Joe of Santa Ana, Robert D. Blackwell, Jr. of Exeter, Mark D. Blackwell and his wife, Rena of Visalia, Pamela Havill and her husband, Steve of Torrance and David L. Blackwell of Visalia; one step-child, Sheri Houston of Riverside; 20 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Condolences may be sent to [email protected].
