On Thursday, May 7, we received the unfortunate news that Bob Ross had passed away following a brief illness.
Bob was a fellow vintage trailer restorer, a friend, and a true craftsman. He was an artist with metal, whether he was working on old trailers or hot rods, and his talent showed in everything he touched.
Bob and Cindy were among the early trailblazers in the vintage trailering hobby. Along with several good friends, Bob was also one of the early hosts of the Pismo rally, helping create the kind of gathering and community that so many of us have enjoyed over the years.
For me, Bob will be remembered not only for his skill and creativity, but for his kindness. Most of all, I will remember the incredible care and love he showed for his wife, Cindy. That said a lot about the kind of man he was.
He will be missed by many in the vintage trailer community and by everyone who was lucky enough to know him.
Please feel free to share your memories and comments below, as Joey did when she remembered “Bobby.”
What can you say about Bob Ross, a man who can create practically anything out of metal, restore cars, hot rods, vintage trailers, haul all kinds of “stuff” as decorations for their trailer, keep up with family, do all kinds of shenanigans with Gilbert (a neighbor now), take care of the house, yard, and go to flea markets to haggle the price down to get something he can sell for more?!?! And that doesn’t even mention the great care and things he does for his wife, Cindy, who is suffering from a (past) stroke. Bobby Ross, you’ve been an amazing man & friend to me & many more. We’re sorry you’re gone, we’ll miss you and talk about you for many years! -Joei
Just got the bad news today about a Great Man (Bob Ross) of his passing. I’m deeply saddened of the news I got. Met BR last year and seems like we knew each other for a long time. A Honor to call him my Friend. A very humble friendly Man. Thank you Bob for being a Great Friend!!! Bobby C….
Total shock. I’ve known both Bob and Cindy for over 20 years. We met in Perris, Ca near their home when they came to look at a 1953 Lighthouse that I had up for sale. I was already stumbling through trying to restore vintage trailers. I was working on a 1954 Westerner and a 61 Lil Loafer at the time. Bob and Cindy became my mentors in the hobby. We lived close enough to each other so that I could go over to the house and help him work on his many trailers. Cindy made my awnings and curtains. She had another talent that hardly anyone talks about making Horse Hair Extensions for show horses. Cindy really cracked the old whip with Bob, keeping him working on the trailers while holding down a full time job managing a machine shop in Orange County. He commuted for years. I learned everything I know from the two. I also got to know Cindy’s mom Barbara along the way and even did a little work on her ranch house. I remember when Cindy had her major stroke. Bob took such good care of Cindy for the rest of his life. The love and friendship I received from both will never be equaled. I’ll miss you Bob. Rest in peace Brother.
Such a shock of his passing. We got into the vintage trailer lifestyle because of Bob and Cindy. They sold us our very first teardrop and then our Crown 1954. So kind and giving, no push overs, always with a good attitude and a jokester to boot. Amazing story’s of the finds and adventures. If someone could get those stories down, anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to know the Rosses would immediately fall for the treasure trove of love and dedication to the vintage trailer culture that they have and have had. Cindy I can’t imagen the loss you must be going through, Russ and I just want you and your family to know how much your are in our thoughts, we love you and appreciate all you have done for us over the years. Contact us for anything.
Such sad news. I recently talked with Bob for advice on our 58 Airstream. After loosing the love of my life Steve Ward in November. We met Bob and Cindy at a rally in Lake Hemet, shortly after Cindy’s stroke. What an amazing man. His caregiving for Cindy was a story of true love. May you rest in peace, and I hope that you and Steve can find one another up there in the Heavens.
Joe and I met Bob and Cindy at a Vintage Vacations Rally at Newport Dunes. It was our first rally, and Bob and Cindy were so kind! Cindy made us our awning a couple years later and we got to go to their home (aka a trailer wonderland) to pick it up. My mom came with, and Bob and Cindy walked around with us for hours letting us look in all the trailers, AND BOB’S SHOP – what a place for him to crank out anything and everything. If you could dream it up, Bob could make it come to life. Watching him care for Cindy after her stroke… what a love! Rest in Peace, you’ll be missed – we’ll see you again down the trail.
Sincere condolences to the Ross family, and to all who are missing Bob
Joe and Shana Fischer