Robert L. Lampkin (actually Lampkins) was born to Robert Lampkin and Maggie Kimball on February 4, 1926 in Hope, Arkansas.
Robert, the second child of four children was affectionately known as "Bob" by his family and friends.
Robert was raised in Arkansas and Texas. Robert graduated early at the age of 16 years old from Booker T. Washington School
in Wichita Falls, Texas. Shortly after graduation Robert relocated to Alameda, California to live with his Aunt and Uncle and to
see what California might offer for employment. Robert was able to learn the trade of welding, but he didn't get to use it
long because he was drafted into the U.S. Anny in World War II. From 1944 - 1946 Robert served in the Infantry of the 1332d
Engineer Battalion as a sharpshooter and specialist in the demolition, land mines and booby traps division. Robert volunteered
to go into the paratrooper division but was denied transfer due to segregation of the forces. Despite being one of the engineers
who searched and re-set land mines, Robert survived the war with only a shrapnel wound to his left upper arm. Robert received
several Decorations which included: Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Good
Conduct Medal, Philippines Liberation Ribbon and the WWII Victory Medal. Robert was Honorably discharged in 1946.
Robert attended Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO from 1948 - 1953. During that time Robert received his Bachelor of
Arts Degree in Music. He planned to teach, write and compose music. College was a memorable time for "Bob". Robert joined
Lincoln University's Concert Choir, band and auditioned for the Symphony Orchestra, and gladly accepted the position.
Robert's favorite musical genre consisted of Classical and Jazz Music, allowing Robert the opportunity to travel and perform in
many venues. Robert was inducted into the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America and is a Life Alumni member of the
Zeta Xi chapter.
While at Lincoln University Robert was active in many social events and organizations, but the one dearest to his heart was the
Kappa Alpha PSI, Fraternity. It was at Lincoln University that Robert pledged Kappa Alpha PSI. It was also at Lincoln University
that Robert met and courted Maxine Bell. Shortly after graduating Robert and Maxine were married in St. Louis, Mo. Later that
year they relocated to Oakland, CA. To his union four children were born: Michael, Davina, Kathi and Aaron.
Robert worked for the Dept. of the Navy as a welder, pipe fitter for 30 years at both Hunter's Point and Mare Island Navel Shipyards.
Robert received many commendations for his excellence in welding. He obtained top secret security clearance to work on various
nuclear submarines. Several times he earned the Zero Defects Employee of the Month Award for his accuracy and skill as a welder.
Robert retired in 1982 from Mare Island.
Robert worked to take care of his family and with the support of his wife Maxine, he was able to be involved in several organiza-
tions: Cub scouts Troop 424 with Troop leader Mr. Watson, PTA, Neighborhood Watch and improvement committees. Robert
was a football fan he liked the Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Colts, but he loved the Oakland Raiders.
As a young boy Robert was raised in the church and his relationship with God continued into adulthood. Robert combined his
love for God and the biblical teachings with his historical expertise to pass this knowledge onto his children and others. One of his
favorite Bible verses was Psalms 51: 10 "Create in me a dean heart:' Robert, Maxine and family: joined Downs United Methodist
Church under Bishop Roy Nichols, where they raised their family. In 2003 Robert joined Beebe Memorial Cathedral, where he
was a faithful member until his passing.
Robert had an astute mirnld for details and facts on a wide Ji"ange of topics particularly historical, geographical, musical, political
and world events. Me read the newspaper diligently daily.
Robert "Bob" had the gift of gab. Just when yon thought he was finished he would say "let me tell you one more thing, or hold that
thought:' Arouad the neighooJi"he)Qd, where Bob and his family lived for more than SO years Bob was the neighborhood ambas-
sador. Bob would talk to any and eveliYone. Robert not only had a special relationship with his children and grandchildren, but
also with his son-in-law daughter-in-law and many of his children's friends.
Robert loved to drive and took his y01!1flg family on many excursions. One in particular was the Sunday drives to various places
surrounding the Bay Area and many other coastal regions. Every Easter vacation he packed the car and took his family to Yosemite.
Many years later Robert bought his favorite car a 1977 Chevy Camaro with a V-8 engine he called "my ride:'
Robert remained active with his Lincoln Alumni Association and Mare Island Colleagues affectionately known by his children as
the "Breakfast Club:' .
One of the greatest joys of Robert's life were his children and grandchildren. Robert continued to be concerned about the welfare
of his children his entire life. He was always proud of all his grandchildren and children and loved them immensely.
Robert had a deep love and commitment to our LOJi"d and Savior Jesus Christ. On Sunday evening, the Lord welcomed Robert
into eternity on March 10,2013. Preceded in death by his parents and siblings. Left to cherish his memory are his children:
Michael Lampkin; Davina (Martin) Bennett; Kathi Lampkin; Aaron (Deborah) Lampkin. Missing his hugs will be his grand-
children: Erica Lampkin, Jason 'Bennett; Timothy LampIan-Little; Edward Lampkin; Keiyoko Bennett andJordan Dyson. Also
mourning his passing, is his cousin Sadie Tatum and family, nieces, nephews and many cousins, other relatives, neighbors and
friends.
Bob's welcoming spirit will always be missed and he leaves us all with his favorite piece of advice "DON'T LET THE HARD
TIMES GET YOU DOWN:'