Robert Cleve Sanborn

Bobby Sanborn, a Redlands native and descendant of the Smiley family of early Redlands, died Wednesday, December 17, 2014 at his home in San Antonio, Texas.

Bobby was born to Thomas and Hazel Sanborn on April 8, 1942 in Redlands, California. His paternal grandmother, Ruth Smiley Sanborn, was the daughter of Daniel Smiley, the half-brother of early Redlands benefactors and "patron saints" Albert K. and Alfred H. Smiley, who continued their philanthropic work.

Sanborn grew up on his family's ranch in San Timoteo Canyon before moving into Redlands proper. He attended McKinley Elementary School, Redlands Junior High School and was a 1960 graduate of Redlands High School.

He was owner of Sanborn's Heating and Air Conditioning in Redlands, a business started by his father. He was twice Lion's Club President, active with the Boys Club and provided vocational training for youth. Bobby, who was well known for driving through the streets of Redlands in Li'l Red, the 1934 Ford pick-up he owned for thirty five years, had many other interests besides classic cars and trucks. He loved fishing, hunting, camping, gardening, traveling and Nascar racing. He also had an avid interest in history, especially the Civil War, World War I and II. He loved his country.

Upon his grandmother Ruth's passing in 1983, Bobby inherited the remaining 20 acres of the Smiley family property on Sunnyside Avenue in Redlands. Personally caring for the scenic grounds, he happily shared its beauty and history with city residents and visitors before retiring and selling the property in 1992 and relocating to San Antonio, Texas. In his retirement he enjoyed traveling in his RV in the United States, Canada and Alaska, sharing his joy and enthusiasm for life with fellow travelers from around the world. Among his many journeys, fulfilling a long cherished dream, he returned to the Smiley family historic Mohonk Mountain House Resort in New Paltz, New York, where he worked following his high school graduation.

In the later years of his life, he enjoyed visiting with family, friends and travelers at the RV Resort where he lived with his wife Alicia. Friends and family said that Bobby was "the kindest and most gentle person and interesting to talk to about any subject." His positive attitude and enthusiasm for life live on in our hearts. He was loved by all and his presence will be missed dearly.

Bobby was preceded in death by his beloved brother Thomas "Tim" Sanborn and beloved nephew Robin Venuti. Survivors include his wife of 31 1/2 years, Alicia G. Sanborn of San Antonio, Texas; one daughter, Cynthia (Malathy) Sanborn of Kerala, India; three sisters, Karen Williams of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Marty Henrie and Leslie Venuti, both of Escalante, Utah; and many nephews and nieces.

A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, January 10, 2015 at Blazing Star RV Resort in San Antonio, Texas.

Memorial donations may be made to the Escalante Heritage Center, P.O. Box 439 C/O Jerry C. Roundy, Escalante, Utah 84726 or The A. K. Smiley Public Library, 125 E. Vine St., Redlands, California 92373.