Tribute to Robert V. Puckett
WRGCA sadly reports that Brother Robert V. Puckett, Jr. passed away peacefully on June 3, 2021, surrounded by his close-knit family. Born November 8, 1944, Bob made his way to Pocatello, Idaho after serving his country in Vietnam in the Marine Corp. He completed his college education, married his wife Sue, and started their family in 1970. Bob hired on with Union Pacific Railroad as a clerk in 1974, then transferred to the Operating Department as a Fireman-Hostler in 1977, shortly thereafter successfully promoted to Locomotive Engineer. Initiated as a new member of BLE Division 228 at Pocatello on November 1, 1977, Bob became an active part of the BLE, holding various positions; primarily, that of Division Secretary-Treasurer (S-T). He represented Division 228 as Delegate to the 1996 International Convention in Detroit, Michigan. Bob joined WRGCA as S-T during the first half of 1998 and served in that capacity until June of 2004 when he stepped back in order to retire from Union Pacific on August 1, 2006.
Retirement continued Bob’s and Sue’s love for animals, especially abandoned dogs having medical needs that ended up at the local Humane Society shelter where Bob volunteered to maintain their financial records. Sometimes numbering four or five at a time, Bob and Sue often opened their hearts and their home to provide foster care for unwanted dogs nearing the end-stages of their lives.
Current General Chairman Steve Leyshon reminisces often about the extensive help and guidance Brother Bob gave to him during his first term as Division #766’s S-T. “Anyone who has held the S-T position at any level, quickly realizes the daunting task of payroll, filing monthly reports, and the multiple Department of Labor regulations that need to be followed. Mistakes can come with dire consequences.” Bob’s devotion to the Brotherhood’s mission is unmatched and shaped the Organization profoundly. Our hearts go out to his family in this difficult time.
Retired General Chairman Tim Donnigan recalls Bob’s attention to the tedious, yet continuously detailed work involving the S-T’s duties was always done professionally – persistent, seamless and smooth was his work ethic. “His dedication and willingness to do things right the first time, plus build and maintain a relationship of trust among those we worked with was extraordinary. Bob was a long-time great friend and union brother, he was a best friend. His death gives genuine meaning to friendship and purpose. He was an ideal diplomat of the craft and its union.”
Retired General Chairman Jim Dayton (First Vice Chairman at the time) summed it up perfectly: “Bob was good natured and easy to work with, steadfast and could be counted on – characteristics necessary to ensure the GCA functioned properly. Bob was solid as a rock, plus the work always got done. He was as loyal as the dogs he loved. I am sorry that he has passed.”
Bob’s reputation was well known by our National Office in Cleveland as well. BLET First Vice President Lee Pruitt said, “Not a better family and union man than Bob. Condolences to family and friends do not come close to expressing the sadness I feel with his passing.”
On behalf of WRGCA’s members, our thoughts and prayers go out to the Puckett Family. We are grateful for Bob’s service as a Locomotive Engineer and Union Brother.