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Robert Golden Bob Matlock
07/10/1933 — 12/19/2009
From Richland, WA, US | Born in Post Falls, ID
Robert Golden Bob Matlock
Robert G. Matlock Goldie passed away peacefully at his Richland, WA home on Saturday, December 19 while being cared for by his loving wife Nancy. He was born July 10, 1933 in Post Falls, ID to Emma Victoria Anderson and Ronald Golden Matlock. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Seattle and worked as a mechanic before joining the Navy in 1952. On December 18, 1954 he married his high school sweetheart Nancy Ann Davis. Bob was discharged from the navy in 1956 and returned to Seattle where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the U of W. While at the U of W Bob and Nancy were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Wendy.
Bob continued his education at the University of Colorado where he earned a Ph.D. in Physics. His career included extensive work in fast reactor physics at the Argonne National Laboratory ANL as well as management positions at both ANL East and West. These included Manager of the Zero Power Plutonium Reactor, Director of the SAREF Project and Solar Energy Program Manager. He also worked for Rockwell International and the Department of Energy. Most of his Tri-City friends remember Bob as the WNP-2 Project Manager during the difficult construction restart and plant completion phase.
Prior to suffering a stroke in 2003 Bob had an active consulting business, served on several boards and pursued his passions for remote controlled model aircraft and bass fishing.
He was preceded in death by his daughter Wendy, a beautiful and talented young woman who worked tirelessly for the Susan G. Komen Foundation in the fight against breast cancer. He is survived by his wife Nancy, her sister Karen Newsome of Edmonds, WA, her brother Jay Davis of Woodinville, WA and their families.
Bob had a keen intellect and a passion for life, learning, hard work and most things mechanical. He had a wicked sense of humor and was an excellent craftsman who built beautiful models and restored vintage cars. He was a good man who left his footprints on the sands of time. He will be missed.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at 1:00pm at Einan's Funeral Home in Richland, WA.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Nancy, my wife Mary Ellen and I were deeply affected by Bob’s life and generosity. We knew Bob while living in Idaho Falls when he taught graduate physics courses at night. He kindled a love of physics and life in all those who knew him. It was not unusual to hear him discussing life and quantum mechanics in the same sentence. He was a geat human being, and my “hero” for all these many years, and he will be very much missed.
Nancy – I sadly read about Goldie’s passing. I remember you both at Lincoln like it was almost yesterday. Sounds like Goldie pursued his passions and had a full life. I hope you now may find some small comfort in your many happy memories.
Nancy, I was sad to see that Golden had Passed. We had lots of fun when we were kids. I all ways looked up to him as he was the big kid. am sorry that we never kept in touch. I did keep track of him as much as possibe with Wilma. I have told the story of him and I lighting model planes on fire and flying them down the hills in Seattle many times.Usually on Christmas. Cliff
Bob, I can see you now as clearly as though it were the years long ago we worked at ANL together in the nuclear and alternate energy programs. An example of the utmost integrity and professionalism, respected by all and a great,supporting companion. We will miss you, Bob. Rest in the peace you so richly deserve.
Nancy and Family,
Even though Bob isn’t with us any longer, I know he would want me to share his familie’s sympathy to each of you with Goldie’s passing away. He shared many good memories with me of the good times he had with you and Goldie. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Bob Young Family
Nancy & Family:
Our hearts & prayers go out to all of you.
We remember all the card parties on weekends we shared. Every couple bringing a six-pack of beer and snacks and always hot pickles that we all tried to eat.
We are all thinking about you at this time and our wonderful memories.
The Jim Morehouse Family
I met Bob 1n 1987 when I was working at the Rancho Seco Nuclear Power Plant and he was serving on a high level advisory committee for our senior management. While all the members of the committee had impressive experience and credentials, Bob always impressed me the most. In addition to a technical background that was amazingly broad and deep, he had a unique ability to relate to everyone he met. This allowed him to circulate through his clients’ organizations and get information from all levels, which he shaped into highly useful and practical recommendations. Bob was a great help to me and to many others. Over the years, whenever our paths crossed, I considered myself lucky to renew our acquaintance. He will be greatly missed.
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Robert Golden Bob Matlock