Robert Dale Flodquist

Robert (Bob) Dale Flodquist, 90, passed away on October 15, 2013, with his family by his side. He was the only child of the late Oscar Bernard Flodquist and Ethel Mae Flodquist (Matthews), born January 22, 1923, in Detroit, Michigan. Following high school graduation, Bob attended the General Motors Technical Institute before enlisting in the Navy. Bob was a fighter pilot in the Pacific Theatre, 1942–45. He lived to tell the tale of being shot down in enemy waters and was awarded five medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross. After serving in the Navy, Bob worked for General Motors. In 1961, he was transferred from Michigan to Santa Barbara, California, where he worked on projects as diverse as redesigning floors, replacing pingers on submarines in the Santa Barbara channel, measuring the effects of detonated bombs on wave activity in the Aleutian Islands, and developing the lunar roving vehicle. In 1980, Bob and his wife, Gwendolyn May Flodquist (Inch) moved to Ventura, California.

Bob’s hobbies and interests included wood working, wood carving, and black-and-white photography. He was active in the Boy Scouts with his three sons. He and Gwen enjoyed traveling throughout the United States. He photographed and developed many pictures of their adventures; these stunning black-and-white portraits of nature showcase his artistic talent. Throughout his life

Bob remained fit. Most days one would find him golfing, running, or bike riding, and in his later years he enjoyed a daily three-mile walk, during which he was fondly greeted by friends and neighbors. He returned from these walks to be eagerly greeted by his beloved cat, Bailey, who was often found by his side. Bob was known by many to always have a twinkle in his eye and a big smile on his face. When asked by others how he was, Bob could be heard saying, “On a scale of 1 to 10….13. I haven’t made it to 14 yet.” Bob will be missed by his family and friends.

Bob and Gwen raised seven children; from oldest to youngest they are: Karen Steward, Cynthia Bradshaw, Beth Rowe, Kenneth Flodquist, Lynn Mari Flodquist-Strayer, Paul Flodquist, and Robert G. Flodquist. He was also blessed with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A memorial service and reception with take place at the First Methodist Church located at 1338 E. Santa Clara, in Ventura, California, on Saturday, November 2, 2013, starting at 11:00 a.m.