Robert Emmett McGarvin

Robert ‘Bob’ Emmett McGarvin passed away on September 6, 2024, at the age of 90, in Grand Junction, CO. Born on November 20, 1933, in Worland, WY, Bob’s life was marked by a profound dedication to his family, a successful career in education, and an active involvement in his community.

Bob served honorably in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, during which time he developed a discipline and resilience that would define much of his later life. After his military service, he pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree from Western State College while playing football for the college team. He obtained a Master’s degree from the University of Idaho.

It was while at Western State that he saw a young woman that sparked his interest. He was introduced to Arlene Taylor, they dated, fell in love and as they say, the rest was history. They were married in 1958, and their love story continued for 66 years.

Bob’s professional life was deeply rooted in the field of education. He began his career teaching art at Delta High School, where he also coached football, JV basketball, and track and field. His passion for education led him to an administrative role, becoming the principal of Garnet Mesa Elementary and Lincoln School. He retired in 1989 after many years of dedicated service, leaving a lasting impact on his students and colleagues.

Bob was a long-standing member of the Presbyterian Church of Delta, where he was involved in various church activities. His commitment to service extended beyond the church as he was a member of the Delta Rotary Club for 50+ years.

Bob’s personal life was filled with hobbies and interests that brought him much joy. He was a very talented artist and sculptor, filling the walls of their home over the years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and took great pleasure in working on his mountain home at Blue Mesa Reservoir. He particularly enjoyed traveling with his wife in their retirement, seeing much of the United States while traveling in their motor home. They even crossed the pond a time or two and have great memories of these adventures. Above all, he cherished the time spent with his family and friends, who will remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Bob is survived by his wife, Arlene McGarvin, daughters, Janna (Dennis) Burk and Kristen (Will) Namminga; grandchildren, Samantha (Jordan) Burris, Justin (Caylah) Burk, and Grace Namminga; and brother Bill McGarvin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett and Grace (Vontz) McGarvin; sister, Annetta Mae Leaverton; and granddaughter, Amanda Kay Burk.

A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at the Presbyterian Church of Delta on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 1:00 pm. All who knew and loved Bob are invited to attend. His legacy of humor, kindness, and community service will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be missed dearly.

Memorial Contributions can be made to the Presbyterian Church of Delta or First Presbyterian Church in Grand Junction. An online obituary is available at www.brownscremationservice.com/obituaries