The Life and Times of 

Stanley "Bob" Robert Nation

In the heart of Boise, Idaho, on the 1st of October 1961, a remarkable character graced the world with his presence. Stanley, better known by friends and family as "Bob," or  “Bobby,” brought a unique light and laughter into the lives of those he touched, carving out a story that's as heartwarming as it is inspiring.

Raised by the adoring Bob and Pat Ream, who predeceased him, Bob's early years in Boise were marked by a zest for life and a knack for making everyone around him feel a little brighter.

Education was an adventure for Bob, striding through the halls of Franklin and Lincoln Elementary Schools, where he not only mastered the academic curriculum but discovered and nurtured his enviable passions for music, letter writing, and swimming—the latter making him the unrivaled swim champ of the family…because he was the only one who was brave enough to learn to swim.

Bob's graduation was a testament to his fierce independence and loyalty to those he cherished. In 1983, while his classmates donned the customary red caps and gowns of Boise High, Bob stood out, proudly wearing the colors of Borah High, just like his sister Kandus. This act of joyful rebellion was pure Bob—full of heart, full of spirit, and always true to himself.

Beyond the classroom, Bob's life blossomed with achievements that spoke volumes of his determination and spirit. As a dedicated participant in the Idaho State Special Olympics, Bob's collection of gold, silver, and bronze medals in swimming, track and field, and cross-country skiing told only part of the story. The other part was the pride and joy he brought to his family and friends, proving time and again that limitations were merely obstacles to be creatively overcome.

Bob's personality was as colorful as his life story. Known for giving the nicest compliments, he had the special ability to notice when someone had "soft and manageable hair" or "smelled terrific." His love for classic TV, movies, and music made gift-giving a delightful challenge. But it was perhaps Bob's quirky sense of humor and his legendary hugs that left the most indelible mark on those lucky enough to have known him.

An aficionado of the guitar, Bob harbored dreams of starting a band with his nephews, assigning each their own instrument, envisioning a family ensemble that would no doubt have been as entertaining as his personality. Not to limit his talents, Bob also excelled at bowling, and his love for both horror movies and a good pizza (small combo, diet coke, no ice, please) were the simple pleasures that defined many a joyous occasion.

Bob's journey came to a peaceful close in Boise, the city where his story began, drawing a gentle curtain on a life lived with resilience, joy, and an ineffable kindness. He leaves behind a loving family, including his sister Kandus and her husband Jim, nieces Vanessa (Casey) and Adrienne (Cutler), nephews Austin (Vanessa), Delan (Pattie), and Treg (Maddy) who will forever cherish the memories of his unmatched spirit, and great-nieces and nephews, Trevin, Harold, Aiden,  Brooke, Zoey, Tristan, Milo, Bianca, Ariellie,  Jaide, and Capri will grow up on tales of his adventures and achievements. Bob also leaves behind his second family at Boise Group Homes, where he has lived the past 30 years. The friendships and memories he has made there will live on in their hearts forever. 

A celebration of Bob's life is scheduled for April 26th, 2024, at Parkview Christian Church in Meridian, Idaho, where stories will be shared, tears will be shed, and laughter will echo in remembrance of a life beautifully lived.

The family graciously requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob's name to the Idaho Humane Society or Warhawk Air Museum or to a charity that speaks to your heart, perpetuating Bob's legacy of generosity and love for life.

Stanley "Bob" Robert Nation, you were truly one of a kind, and you will be profoundly missed. The legacy of your kindness, your spirit of never giving up, and the warmth of your friendship will continue to inspire and comfort all who knew you. Rock on, Bob, in that grand band in the sky.