Robert Roy Guthrie

Bob was born in Chicago, Illinois in May 1947. His family moved to Texas soon after and he was known as a Texan ever since. His childhood was spent in Waco, Texas with periods of time spent in Rosebud assisting his relatives with farming and ranching activities. In high school and his early college years, he worked and learned from numerous jobs in Waco such as a lifeguarding at city pools, factory work, zoo keeping, and hotel night manager.

He graduated from University High School, having participated in baseball and debate team. Bob was encouraged by a beloved high school drama teacher to enroll at Baylor University where he studied in the theater department. During his years at Baylor, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Lighting Design and studied for post graduate classes. He was hired as a Stagecraft instructor and assisted in the design of the current Baylor theater building.

His professional experiences included employment as a Lighting Designer for Ashland Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon, for several years before returning to Texas and relocating to the Houston area where he was proud to be known as a Union stagehand, joining the roster of International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE 51). He worked with Houston Stage and Equipment, in the theater department at the University of St. Thomas, community theaters, and as a Head Carpenter for Theater Under the Stars.

He met and married Catherine in 1989, celebrating 33 years of marriage in August 2022. Although they had no children, they sailed and travelled to all 50 states and visited 65 National Parks.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Duane and Mildred Guthrie. His immediate family surviving him are his wife, Catherine; his sister, Arlis Knowles; and his nieces, Karen Roberson and Alice Knowles. He has 3 great nephews and 2 great nieces.

A memorial celebration of his life will be held at the IATSE 51 hall located at 3030 North Freeway on Monday, October 24, 2022 from the hours of 4:00pm-6:00pm. All that knew Bob are invited and stories of their encounters are welcomed. His family requests that in lieu of flowers that donations be sent to the American Diabetes Foundation.