It is sad to report the passing of "Bobbo" Dunn tonight around 7:00 PM tonight.
Everyone is being asked to submit a panel for "Bobbo" to be displayed at his services. He was a paint guy and would have appreciated the thought.
Further details regarding his services and mailing address for cards and panel will be announced when they become available.
A little bit about Bobbo...
At 13 he began learning how to paint and letter at a sign shop in his hometown, Visalia, California. The owner told him he would teach him all he knew if Bobbo would work for free. Well, Bobbo worked hard but he wasn't being taught very much by the owner so he began watching very closely at what the old man did and became a fairly good sign painter by the time he was 15.
At this age his father got him a job lettering a sign for one of his personal friends who owned a plumbing company. Bobbo put his heart into that sign as it was his first and he wanted to please the customer but impress his father as well. The sign was lettered in a style to look like pipe with all the tees and elbows being airbrushed to give it a true 3-D effect. The owner was so pleased that he let Bobbo letter his trucks also. Needless to say, the owner of the sign company fired Bobbo for lettering those trucks. Seems the plumber was a customer of the sign company. Oh well, he wasn't getting paid anyway.
He practiced very hard and became very good at what he did no matter what it was. An auto dealer who he caddied for on week-ends was also the president of the local antique car club learned of his pinstriping abilities as he and Bobbo always talked about school and what Bobbo was learning (he had no son and couldn't relate much to his daughter). He lined up a lot of cars from the local club for Bobbo and pinstriping that first car was the longest and hardest time spent on any car. He became faster as each car was striped. This was 1948.
Bobbo also acquired work from other locals at the bowling alley where he worked nights setting pins and he would letter, paint and airbrush names and bowling balls and pins in 3-D on their bowling bags. After they saw what he had painted on his skate case he also painted and airbrushed winged roller skates on skate cases for his friends at the skating rink where he skated and played roller hockey. He lettered and airbrushed them for a real 3-D effect.
In the beginning years of custom painting, Bobbo was already a seasoned veteran of pinstriping and airbrush art. His beginning was in high school when schools taught commercial art classes . He majored in art, mechanical drawing and architecture. He earned a scholarship from General Motors in 1947 for designing and building a clay model in a GM contest. That drawing and model today would look a lot like some of the concept cars of the big three. He didn't use that scholarship because he had a driving urge to be one of the best artists in the US and later went on to get an AA degree in creative design to help pursue that dream.
He joined the army at the age of 17 in January l949 and after basic training was transferred to the Brooklyn Army Base in Brooklyn, NY and used his talents as a graphic artist assistant. But in early July 1950 he was transferred to Ft. Bragg, North Carolina and went through training and became an airborne ranger. After training he was sent to Korea to be a moving target for the North Koreans and the Chinese during the Korean conflict. He was wounded three times and was awarded a few ribbons and then transferred to the rear to the third Logistical Command in Pusan.
There he created one of the first military sign shops in Korea. In January 1952 he was sent home on leave after his tour of duty in Korea. He worked in a military sign shop and painted lines on streets at the Presidio of San Francisco and in December 1953 he was discharged after almost five years in the service and returned home.
He worked as a truck driver, warehouse manager and managed a drive-in restaurant for the first four months after his discharge. His home town wasn't the same as it was when he went into the service so he moved to So. Calif. and got a job in a sign shop in Pomona. He quit for a better job in the display department at Sears. This would be great as he had plenty of time to work his hobby and get known for his work in Pomona. He started by painting bowling bags, skate cases and pinstriping and lettering cars and motorcycles the same as he did before entering the service. He married a local girl he had met at the roller skating rink. Soon after, he bought his first house in 1955 (for $13,675.) and set up shop in his garage.
His name "BOBBO" was given to him in 1952 by a girlfriend who was his dance partner while the two taught dancing for a dance studio in San Francisco while he was in the service. You can imagine how many Bobs are in a group of servicemen learning how to dance in a military service club. So she named him "BOBBO" to separate him from the other Bobs. This is the name he kept for signing the custom work he did from the 50's to the present.He was the original BOBBO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
When Kenny Howard, aka "VON DUTCH", created the new craze of auto painting and pinstriping, Bobbo already knew how to do all the things that Von Dutch started so he jumped on the band wagon (so to speak) and has been riding it ever since. The last time he saw Kenny was at the '87 "RATFINK" get together at Kim Dedic's in Anaheim.
Bobbo built a good reputation by lettering all kinds of race cars and drag cars of every sort and became well known for his lettering all over California and Arizona. It was in the 50's that he began teaching his trade to others as there weren't many doing this type of auto design work. Because of his reputation, he was called by his customers,"The Von Dutch of Pomona Valley", plus being the best known custom painter in the area and had work coming from all over the state but wouldn't do free work for magazines so he wasn't well known except by word of mouth. He was also known as the "Larry Watson and Dean Jeffries" of the Pomona Valley but painted scallops on vehicles before either one of them..
Bobbo painted, lettered and pinstriped more dragsters, streamliners, lakesters competition coupes, roadsters and street rods than anyone in the area. An auto dealer in Pomona hired him to paint a lot of cars similar to Von Dutch's so he could sell them as the originals. This dealer also sponsored many of the race cars Bobbo painted and lettered for the local racers and even held car shows on his used car lot to bring in customers.
Some of the cars were Shelton Shmidt's 34 coupe featured on the cover of Popular hot Rodding and Hot Rod Magazines, October 1962, Herb Reis's Dragster, Danylo and Pennington and Danylo and Reid's dragsters. Ed Taylor's 8 second roadster three times, Four of the five '65 Mustangs raced in 1965 and were shown in many magazines, Ron Root's Dodge Dart in '62, Bill Adair's "Dark Horse" dragster, Bill Casler's "Hooker Headers" cars and many others.
He has lettered and painted hundreds of different race cars for big named racers in his career. Ron Rivero and Norm Weekly's competition coupe,("The Isky Bandit"), Fox and Holding's Roadster featured on the cover of Rod and Custom, March 1961, before the four joined and became "The Frantic Four". He painted all but one of their cars that went on to upset some of the biggest names in drag racing.
Bobbo knew and visited the big name custom painters and even had the opportunity to work with a couple of them during the years of this new age of painting. He was one of the originals that kept the whole thing going. After all they were all friends. Von Dutch, Larry Watson, Dean Jeffries, George and Sam Barris, and of course his close friend who he helped create "RAT FINK" with, Ed "Big Daddy" Roth, and close local friend Ron Foreman. He would visit to see if the new ideas they were creating would work for him.
Yep, they sure did!! Learning to paint pearl was one of the best learning experiences as nothing is as pretty as a very good pearl paint job and Larry Watson was the best. With all the painting and striping he was doing, Bobbo ruled the Pomona Valley with two of the valley's best custom painters and stripers, Ron Foreman and Jim Regan.
In 1962 a local sign painter knew of Bobbo's talents and wanted him to manage his shop and merge the two businesses together. Bobbo agreed and they worked together for two and a half years. An agreement made between them was not kept so Bobbo left. He was asked by another sign company in Corona to work with him for more money so Bobbo went there to work but it only lasted six months. He just didn't like working with anyone who didn't pay or reneged on agreements so he opened his first real shop outside of his garage in 1965. It was only 1250 sq. ft. but that was big in 1965.
He worked in his shop until 1974 and decided to move to Grand Junction, Colorado. He moved and opened a custom paint shop and began building and painting vans as the craze was just growing and vans were in demand. He began building interiors and selling accessories so he named the business "The Van Man". In 1978 that fizzled and the van business craze died out and he moved back to So. Cal. and re-established his business. He worked steadily and happily at his job until 1990.
He sold his shop to a student and friend of his, Tim McColgan and moved back to Colorado to retire. But as time would have it, in 1992, Bobbo was called by Sign Business Magazine as he had won the first Auto Art Contest with his van. They had showcased some of his work in 1989 and 1990. The editor, Terry Wike wanted to feature Bobbo in an article and had to spend a whole day getting all the information he needed and returned to Broomfield, Colorado to work on getting it into print
Terry found Bobbo to be very versatile in every aspect of sign lettering, custom auto painting, pinstriping and work pertaining to it and asked Bobbo if he would write some step-by-step articles for the magazine so he wrote a few for them. Terry wrote Bobbo a nice letter of praise which he cherished to this day.
He had written step-by-step articles for trade magazines such Airbrush magazine, Airbrush Action, Auto Graphics, Sign Business, Custom Painting, Mini Truck Kit Cars and Auto Art and had been showcased in many of them. He was featured in the first issue of Truckin' magazine, summer 1975, Mini Truck 1981, Kit Car and Custom Painting in 1981, Airbrush magazine in 1994, Sign Business in 1994 and Auto Graphics in 1998.
In 1993, he moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where he pursued his love of design and painting. He spent many hours working and added web pages to his resume but still took time to visit friends in the industry and called them as he hated to write letters. By enjoying the brush bashes and the panel jams he met some of the greatest talents in the world and was honored to know them. Their friendships had given him the opportunity to keep up with the new ideas and techniques. He believed that "you can teach an old dog new tricks", especially in this business, and the rest was history.
Rest in Peace, Bobbo! Posted by Gonzalo (Peewee)Curiel (Member # 3837) on :
Spoke to him a few times on the phone.. a very helpful man sure to be missed.. Posted by Len Mort (Member # 7030) on :
R.I.P. My prayer is that you are with all the sky-writers, and never be forgotten!
You have left a legacy!
Posted by Joey Madden (Member # 1192) on :
Bobbo had a great many things he's done which can be found on his website, check it out and you'll be very surprised and glad you did BOBBO DUNN Posted by Alicia B. Jennings (Member # 1272) on :
I can't believe it! Bobbo gone! I first met him when he had his shop in Ontario, CA, back around 85'. He really opened my eyes into using color. Real Color, not white backgrounds and red lettering, but deep blue, orange, bold backgrounds. And he never treated me like a woman, he always treated me like a signpainter. Gosh, I can't believe my friend is gone. Farewell to you my "Brother of the Brush", your job here on this Earth is now finished.
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
R.I.P. Bobbo!
I met Bobbo for the 1st time a few years ago at Fred's Meet in OKC.
A true letterhead! If you asked him a question, he would stop whatever he was doing and teach/show you the way to do it!
At one meet, I took a dime and a quill with about 4 hairs on it, and painted
Si Allen Was here!
on about 1/2 the diameter on it, Bobbo looked at it and said it needs a drop shade....and did it !
We will all miss him!
[ September 01, 2009, 01:48 AM: Message edited by: Si Allen ]
Posted by Frank Magoo (Member # 3950) on :
I don't know what to say, Bobbo was one of those that one would figure to live forever, always the consumate health guru, if not for Bobbo, I'd never met the doctor in Albq. that saved my life when fighting cancer back in the 90's...
Not to be reduntant, but I'm at a loss of words, the man was my friend of many years, always there for anyone in need, always ready to guide and teach, always seemed to have the "right" answer, always the eptiome of good health, one to look up to (now we will), I'm happy only that he's in a better place and among good friends, to say we lost a star today would be an understatment, his legacy, hopefully, as it's well deserved, will mimic Ed's and other truely remarkable personalities that we were blessed to know, God speed my friend, truly hope to someday shake your hand again and am sorry I hadn't talked to you these last few months, farewell...
For me, I'm going to now pursue Raymond Chapman's philosphy of letting those of age know NOW that I appreciate them and applaud their laurels now, not later when, as in this case for me, it became to late to do so.....that regret will follow me to my grave as Bobbo was one of my best friends..... Posted by FranCisco Vargas (Member # 145) on :
wow thats sad we lost another brother. what's a trip I was in Visalia today finishing up a restuarant his hometown. I don't think I ever got to meet him but from Bruce's story of Bobbo, and all the others who knew him sounds like he was a true signwarrior...
Posted by Neil D. Butler (Member # 661) on :
I never knew the man at all, but his website is awesome!
Posted by Dale Feicke (Member # 767) on :
Good tribute, Bruce! I never knew Bobbo, but was familiar with the scope and quality of his work.
He'll be missed here; but the next wierd, cool sunset you see, it just might be him back at work.
Posted by Robert Beverly (Member # 1907) on :
With the "rosy" glass that any aspiring artist uses to view the world and interpret it's colors, one can always find that force that drives such passion. That feeling that comes from knowing your direction is correct and infinite.
The roots of that passion and direction has to start somewhere and the nurturing that I have been blessed with had some Bobbo in the mix!
You always remember that one time where it clicks between you and someone...that instant exchange that defines the relationship.
That first such time came when I was at a meet in Houston, hosted by Robert Nouis. My gilding and brush work had been developing under the tutelage of Fred Self, but unbeknownst to me, the lesson that I was about to learn became a profound one. Fred, a true master of the painted letter could make that brown squirrel brush just fly around on that panel. He made it look so darn easy...but my brush work during gold backup was atrocious. I could never keep that hair from going all over.
During the meet, Bobbo came over and peering over my shoulder just made it worse! He blurted out in his gruff sergeant tone, a slight grin rising to the surface...Beverly!...go in there and have Nan get you a grey squirrel...
Well....
Knowing that he might have a smidge of wisdom over me, I bantered my way in to the brush rack grabbed some greys and set out to find out what this guy knows...or at least that smidge of it.
The minute I layed that brush down on that glass, I felt in control. I could not believe it, and with this **** eatin grin on his face, he just look at me, smiled and said...see why now?
Then he sat down and explained the differences, a little more about the nuances of brush work and off he was to help someone else.
That moment has never been forgotten and will always be one of the special moments of reference to Bobbo. I thank you for your friendship and guidance. May you rest in peace.
And one of the coolest cars around...He was rightfully very proud of his cruiser!
[ September 01, 2009, 11:03 AM: Message edited by: Robert Beverly ]
Posted by jack wills (Member # 521) on :
I had collected a lot of stuff about "Bobbo" but like the many other things collected it all seems to have gotton legs.
Catch up withya sometime "Bobbo". Maybe keep them Pearly Gates, all spiffy.
Jack 541-270-5515
Posted by Joe Cieslowski (Member # 2429) on :
What an honor to meet such a fine man......and boy did he have stories to tell...........
R.I.P. Bobbo
Joe
Posted by Steve Shortreed (Member # 436) on :
For years, I have been asking all of you to sign my laptop case at live meets. When I read Bruce's post last night, I couldn't resist looking foe Bobbos's signature and recalling my experience with the Man at Fred's meets.
Everyone knows about Bobbo's painting skills, but he was also known as Dr. Bobbo for his knowledge about health issues. He spent all sorts of time with me discussing my health and ways to improve my life. This Man truly cared about others. He'll live on in the hearts and minds of all of us who knew him.
Posted by Artie J Schilling (Member # 2749) on :
I can't believe it, I've known Bobbo forever. He'd call me every couple months just to say Hello, then we'd talk for two hours about everything and anything. Since I left Colorado Bobbo sent us a bushel of chile peppers every year so Linda could make green chile burritos. I'm really going to miss him.............
Posted by Raymond Chapman (Member # 361) on :
There's a hole in my heart today from hearing of Bobbo's death. The only time I spent with this fine gentleman was at Fred's each year, but we became good friends and he was always polking me in the ribs with some humorous comment, but constantly with a loving smile.
Each year he would have some little gift for me that was personal, along with a lot of advice on how to do some intricate pin striping detail. He loved to teach and never passed up an opportunity to help someone else.
I was always amazed at what great shape he was in for a man in his 70's.
We were both old when our paths crossed, but I'm fortunate to have known him and count him as a dear friend.
Another Master moves on. Rest in peace.
[ September 01, 2009, 03:15 PM: Message edited by: Raymond Chapman ]
Posted by KARYN BUSH (Member # 1948) on :
so sorry to see this post. i met him at freds meet also. a true artist! and character...what a hoot he was! RIP bobbo
Posted by Harris Kohen (Member # 2139) on :
WoW, after reading the post about Bobbo's illness the other night I promised myself I would try to give him a call this week. I just got home from work and signed on only to find this upsetting news.
Bobbo you were and will always be one my greatest inspirations.
Thanks to Magoo, in 2004 I was fortunate enough to spend a few days with Bobbo at the SEMA show walking around the place checking out everything including the cute girls. Bobbo was nice enough to introduce me to so many different people from the likes of Gene Winfield all the way through the pinstriping ranks and custom car world. I got to hear stories of things he did and where he learned some of his tricks. Unfortunately I didnt get to take him up on his offer to spend a week in Albuquerque learning so much more. I will always cherish the photos from when Bobbo, Magoo and I painted the Bonneville Big Wheel for Dennis Roth. Along with the many photos I have of him with all the cute models on the show floor.
Bobbo, You definitely were one of the good guys.
Thank You for all you have done to pave the way for the rest of us. You will be missed by so many whose lives you have touched.
Posted by Duncan Wilkie (Member # 132) on :
What a bundle of energy, good will and talent. It was fun knowing you Bobbo
Posted by R T Thomas (Member # 355) on :
I will miss Bobbo!
I met Bobbo quite a few years back at one of Fred's meets. He was one of the reasons for being there. I regret not making Fred's the last few years and really wish I could make them all. Bobbo will be sorely missed by this ol' fart.
I have a panel he did for me and couple more that he just threw in there. I appreciate every one of them and they mean more to me now than ever. Now when I look at the sunset I'll know Bobbo had his hand in it somewhere. God has lots of artists at his disposal and Bobbo will serve him well.
RIP Bobbo.......... R.T.
Posted by John Lennig (Member # 2455) on :
A sad day. Thursday, 4 or 5 of us will do a group panel using our BOBBO Quads...to send down to The Memorial. Glad i was able to meet BOBBO, and surely enjoyed it.
Posted by Frank Magoo (Member # 3950) on :
Sorta an update...as Bobbo's brother can't get to Albq. before this coming Friday, final arrangements haven't been made yet, but, it will be in Santa Fe, NM at the veterans cemetary, so plan to either fly into Albq. or Colorado Springs, Co., there will be rides coming from either or renting a car is another option to reach Santa Fe...
(this update courtesy of Geet/Ellen)
Posted by Eric Elmgren (Member # 11536) on :
He was an amazing guy.
I'm stealing a line from a movie: "we should feel privileged to have known him when he was here"
RIP Brother.
Posted by Kent Smith (Member # 251) on :
I am in shock...good friend gone.
Posted by Frank Magoo (Member # 3950) on :
My bad, maybe...seems the veiwing and impromptu memorial is to be in Albq., Wednesday evening, t he 9th; but burial may still be at Veterans Memorial in Santa Fe...everything hinges on the brother, John, who will be enroute tomorrow... Posted by Bob Burns (Member # 268) on :
C U SOON! KEEP THE BEER COLD!
Posted by Bob Peach (Member # 2620) on :
Bobbo was a good friend. We will miss him. Posted by John Largent (Member # 4606) on :
At this point, BOBBO's earthly remains will be cremated tomorrow and will be interred at the Veteran's Cemetery in Santa Fe, NM.
[ September 09, 2009, 07:08 PM: Message edited by: John Largent ]
Posted by Eric Elmgren (Member # 11536) on :
Bruce, nobody thanked you for the great eulogy heading this thread, so I will.
Thanks, very well done.
Posted by Deb Fowler (Member # 1039) on :
So sorry about your loss. I never met Bobbo, but it is truly sad to say goodbye.
My thoughts are with you that knew him as a friend and also a sadness to see a brother of the brush pass, and a person that treated others well, of course.
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