Robert (Bob) James Merrell passed away peacefully at his home in Santa Cruz October 15th after a hard-fought battle with a rare illness called amyloidosis. He was 67 years old. Bob graduated from Soquel High School in 1966. Upon graduating, he served his country and fought in the Vietnam War with the US Marine Corps. He was a proud American and loyal soldier.

Bob worked for Safeway in Santa Cruz and Livermore for more than 30 years, which allowed him to retire at age 53. He was a very knowledgeable car enthusiast owning and showing many Chevrolet Corvettes throughout the years. After restoring his beloved '67 Chevelle, Bob became a member of the 'Cam Snappers' Club. Bob loved sharing his experiences in automobile restorations and cherished lifelong friendships that were made along the way.

An avid water-skier, Bob taught several members of his family and their friends how to water ski behind his many boats he owned over the years. His children and their families will continue to share memories of family houseboat trips at Lake Don Pedro and Bob's love for camping, water-skiing, boating, and spending time with his friends, family and grandchildren.