Dana Point, CA - Robert Edgar Willett Jr., affectionately known as "Bad Bob," crossed the final finish line December 5, 2025.

Bob was the proud patriarch of the "Willett Clan," survived by seven siblings, a large extended family, and his favorite companion, MC.

Born in Carlsbad, California, Bob was the first son and second of 12 children born to Marion Francis (Bair) and Robert Edgar Willett. His birth came while his father was serving as a Marine in World War II. After his father's service, the family returned to the Midwest, living in Indiana and Missouri, always holding onto the dream of returning to Southern California.

Bob grew up in St. Louis, where he discovered his lifelong love of golf. In the 1960's Bob served in Vietnam and afterwards went back to St. Louis and his career as a golf professional at the Algonquin Golf Club, until moving to Southern California and reuniting with his family that had returned many years earlier.

His restaurant career began in Dana Point at the original Villa Mexican Restaurant. The fuse was lit, and his passion to be part of the hospitality industry never wavered. He went on to manage several restaurants and had many food and beverage ventures before finding his home behind the bar at the Dana West Yacht Club, where he worked for the remainder of his career.

Bob's love for the restaurant world was evident both as a bartender and as a loyal patron of his favorite haunts—Harpoon Henry's, Wind & Sea, The Fisherman's, and Coyote Grill. His evenings were spent among friends in restaurants, while his days often found him at the blackjack table or betting on his beloved ponies, especially the grays.

Through these encounters-whether with colleagues he managed, owners of establishments he frequented, or servers who endured his "friendly demeanor"-Bob built countless lifelong friendships.

To honor Bob, raise a glass, take a chance, and bet on a gray!