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Robert C. Colgan Jr.,"Bob", left his earthly body August 1, 2010. He was at home, surrounded by love and his assent was ever so peaceful. A wee smile was on his lips to tell us not to grieve but to celebrate exceptional life. Left behind is his wife JoAnn of 42 years; daughters Kem Schmalzer and husband Lou, TN, JoLynn Maestas Alb., daughter in-law, Linda Colgan, Spokane; son, Luke Colgan and wife Sofia, Taipei, Taiwan; his adoring grandsons, Michael Colgan, Spokane, Ryan and Gavin Maestas, Alb, Stevie and John Boyle, TN, Sean Colgan, Taiwan, and Zorro. Bob was preceded in death by son, Chris Colgan and daughter, Teri Ortega. Born October 20, 1929 in Philadelphia, PA, coming to Albuquerque 1947 to attend UNM. During his college days he became a campus leader. Some of his achievements were elected member of the men's honorary organization, Katali. His senior year he was editor of the UNM yearbook, Mirage and also chosen for Who's Who in American Colleges. After graduation in 1951, Bob taught school two years at Lincoln Jr. High and APS Central Office where he was director of Education Television working with KNME. In 1959, he joined Sandia Laboratory in Public Relations, later, became a writer/director in Motion Picture Division. In 1965, he became supervisor of Employee publication, and editor of the Sandia Lab News. He then settled in 1967, achieving his dream job, Supervisor of Motion Pictures and Video. Retiring in 1989 and began volunteering doing the jobs he loved. First, was a Rio Grande Zoo Docent from 1986 and Botanical Docent from 1995. He volunteered at the Information booth in Old Town for ACVB,( Visitors Bureau,)since 1989, a board member of the New Mex Zoological Society and President in 1992-93; docent at the Albuq. Museum for 4 years, delivered Meals on Wheels for 5 years and on their board, plus the board of the Arthritis Foundation. In his free time, Bob and JoAnn pursued their passion of traveling, venturing to Egypt, Canada and various trips throughout the USA, and every two years, England and Ireland. Bob touched the lives of so many, and they, him. Each person he made feel special because they were special to him. He was the ultimate seeker, with an ongoing curiosity for life. There was no formal religious belief for Bob because he practiced what most religions strive for, peace, serenity, and deep appreciation of all life. Bob will be deeply missed. But we are so lucky to have known him, loved him and been loved by him. A Celebration of his Life will be held at the Rio Grande Zoo, Sunday the 15th at 6:30 p.m. Contributions may be given in his name to NM BioPark Society, 903 Tenth St. SW, 87102.
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