Robert Edward Moyer
Robert (Bob) Edward Moyer, 81, of Russellville, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 11th, 2023, surrounded by his loving wife Beth and son Michael at his home in Bend, Oregon. He will be remembered most for his heartwarming smile, kind nature, keen intellect, and wry sense of humor as the patriarch of the Moyer family.
Bob graduated from The University of Alabama, completing his ROTC program and receiving his commission and master's degree in metallurgical engineering. He then served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969 as a guided missile officer with Top Secret credentials. He received two commendations medals for outstanding service and rising to the rank of Captain. Bob's service to the country continued in the Army National Guard from 1971 to 1981, reaching the rank of Major. He took great pride in service and was a positive role model for his family.
Bob also had a successful 30-year career as a metallurgical engineer in the Petroleum and Gas industry. He earned his PE license and was recognized as an expert in his field through published papers and professional affiliations. In addition, he developed deep domain knowledge, leading quality assurance efforts in Nuclear and Oil & Gas safety for companies globally. As an accomplished panelist and speaker in his field, Bob concluded his professional career with 15 years at ASC, where he developed lifelong friendships he valued deeply.
Bob married Beth in 1981 in Alabama, and they spent 41 beautiful years exploring the world side by side. A cancer survivor, Bob was a fighter who called many places home, starting in Alabama before moving to Texas and then Tennessee before eventually settling in the Pacific Northwest to be close to kids and grandkids. Bob was a die-hard Alabama football fan with an encyclopedic knowledge of anything Roll-Tide related. In addition, he enjoyed gardening and landscaping, as reflected in his homes. Beautifully orchestrated flower gardens and well-maintained grounds set the stage for a quiet night at home with Beth over a glass of fine wine or a turbo-charged afternoon with grandkids in a winner take all water gunfight.
Bob and Beth shared a love for traveling, and together, they visited many beautiful places around the world by boat, car, or plane. They appreciated the journey as much as the destination, creating lifelong memories on their way. One of their favorite places was the Great Smoky Mountains, where they frequently packed the car up and road-tripped for a hike or a picnic. They often timed their regular pilgrimages with the turning of the Fall leaves. The mountains and nature's splendid color show came together magnificently as amazing backdrops for Bob's passion for photography. Travel pictures and their narratives were always a highlight of the next family get-together.
His love of travel was passed along as inspiration for extended Moyer family vacations. Bob found family-friendly destinations to bring everyone together in new and beautiful places to express gratitude and appreciation. Museums, aquariums, zoos, and scenic picnic spots were frequent stops along any day's adventure. Concluding with board games and slideshows, the family reflected on favorite moments with laughter over a great meal that was never complete without a slice of pie and a scoop of ice cream. These cherished memories he created will live on forever. Bob will be remembered as a kind, generous, loving husband, father, and grandfather who touched many lives with his wisdom, humor, and compassion.
Bob is survived by his wife Beth; his sons Rob (Christine) and Michael (Robyn); his grandchildren Elsa, Max, and Adrian. A graveside service with military honors was held for the family on March 16th at 2:00 PM at the Pilot Butte Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the World Central Kitchen in Bob's memory at World Central Kitchen (wck.org/donate).