Robert Lee Duncan Sr.'s Obituary
Robert Lee Duncan Sr. lovingly known to everyone as Bob, with his favorite alias being, ‘Bobert McDuncan’ from the Robinson Clan in Scottland.
He was born to Lila Lee and Calvin J. Duncan on June 8th 1949 in Galveston Texas but was raised by Ben Diaz Sr. as his father. As his father was in the Merchant Marines, Bob and his brother Ben Jr. grew up in a Boys Orphanage in Galveston. While in the Orphanage, Bob had many responsibilities among which were sweeping the front porch, making tons of sandwiches for all the boys daily, to raising Pigs for the 4-H Club. One day while working with the Pigs, Bob was driving a tractor and wrapped it around a large Pecan Tree. That is why Bob’s favorite is Pecan Pie.
After leaving the Boys Home, Bob started working at Wyatt’s Cafeteria with his mother and became one of the Chefs. In 1968, Bob moved to California with his Mother Lila. Bob worked at a few jobs until he settled at United Foam in Oakland where he met Kathy, the love of his life through her best friend who also worked at United Foam. On March 15th 1970, Bob and Kathy were united in marriage in Oakland and began their life together. Then in 1979 Bob and Kathy ventured into business and created Bob’s Foam Factory which has survived the ups and downs of business these 42 years.
Part of the success of Bob’s Foam factor is due to Bob’s Heart of Gold and his inability to say no. He gave without measure and many individuals and charities were blessed by his generosity. It is hard to mention all the unique and varied creations that were fabricated in Bob’s Foam Factory, from NASA, to Movies, the ATF, various Costumes, Tesla interiors, Chucky Cheese figures, and not to mention, Santa Claus.
Bob epitomized the image and character of Santa Claus down to the Rosie Cheeks, White Beard and Twinkle in his Eye. He even had his own sleigh, which later became a White Can-Am 3-Wheel Motorcycle which he transformed into Rudolph and often toured the neighborhoods giving joy to many who would often stop him for photo-ops; including numerous Police who could not resist the opportunity.
Bob volunteered nightly for two weeks every year as Santa at Crippsmas Place in Fremont, CA. Bob cut no corners when it came to being Santa, his suit is the most authentic, down to the bells at his waist and shoes. Bob’s stature and personality along with the suit fit the bill beyond description.
Out of this 51-year loving marriage, Bob is survived by his Wife Kathy, Children Matthew, Robert Jr., Diane and Dominic; Grandchildren Manuel,
Austen, Ashley, James, Alexis, Lorenzo, Lennon and their spouses; Great Grandchildren Abigail, Julian, Aaliyah, Christian, Robert and soon to born Audrey. His brother Ben Diaz Jr. and his family and a host of extended family and friends. And we cannot overlook his best Bud Sammy, better known as ‘Samuel L Jackson Jr.’
Finally, If Bob could speak to us today, he would likely say;
“I. B. DUN with it”!
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?
