LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Robert James “Bob” Folmar passed away on Oct. 11, 2025, in Kelseyville, California, at the age of 87 with his children by his side. 

Born on March 15, 1938, in Ohio, Bob lived a life defined by service, dedication and devotion to his family.

As a young boy, Bob moved to California with his parents. He graduated from Mendocino High School in Mendocino in 1955 in a class made up of just 14 seniors. 

Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy on March 13, 1956 — just two days before his 18th birthday. He served honorably as an Electrician aboard the USS Hornet CV-12, a storied aircraft carrier now preserved as the “Grey Ghost” museum in Alameda, California. 

After three years of faithful service, Bob was honorably discharged on February 27, 1959. His time in the Navy remained a meaningful chapter in his life, and he later attended several reunions with fellow shipmates from the USS Hornet. Before he passed, Bob was one of only two sailors still living who served together.

While on leave during his military service, Bob met Patricia “Pat,” who would become his wife of nearly 47 years. They were married on April 19, 1959, less than two months after his discharge from the Navy. Together they built a life grounded in love and shared purpose.

Following his military service, Bob began a distinguished 38-year career with the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans). He started in District 3 in Sacramento, where he and Pat started raising their three children. Later, he transferred to Sonora before ultimately settling in Lake County in 1976 when he moved to District 1 to be closer to Pat’s family.

Bob retired in 1997 after decades of dedicated public service that left a lasting mark on the communities he helped support through infrastructure and transportation development.

Bob was a man who found joy in the outdoors and treasured time spent with family. He looked forward to annual hunting trips and especially cherished fishing outings with his son and grandsons. Family gatherings were a highlight of his life — particularly those centered around food — where he earned and embraced his affectionate nickname, “Yogi.”

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Folmar; his parents, Louise and Robert A. Folmar; and his sister, Sue Ann Folmar.

Bob is survived by his brother, Dave Folmar (Sandy); his son, Robert D. Folmar (Stacey) and their sons Robby (Ashley) and Garrett (Audi); his daughter Janet Folmar (Brian), her son Dylan and grandson Jax; and his daughter Sharon Gunther (Bobby), their son Dalton (Rebecca) and grandchildren Rylee, Wyatt, and Aubrey; as well as their daughters Corteney (Ryan) and Amber (Dave) and granddaughter Brooke.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1, at noon at the American Legion Hall located at 5005 Second St. in Kelseyville.

Bob’s legacy is one of steadfast service to his country and community, enduring family bonds, and a well-lived life. May his memory bring comfort and peace to those who knew him.