Obituary of Robert Eugene Tomlin

Robert E. "Bud" Tomlin passed away peacefully on September 22, 2011 surrounded by his loving family. Bud was born in Taylorville, Illinois on September 25, 1932. Bud moved west and spent 66 years living in the San Lorenzo Valley. A gifted athlete and graduate of San Lorenzo Valley High School, originally known as Boulder Creek High School, he was one of the first athletes to be recognized as Male Athlete Of The Year. Bud still holds the record for scoring a rushing touchdown on the first down play, of the first four consecutive offensive possessions while playing against Carmel High School. Bud married his high school sweetheart Barbara J. Meschi, who preceded him in death. In 1950 he enlisted in the United State Navy and served with distinction as a Boatswain's Mate Second Class on the USS Brinkley Bass Destroyer during the Korean War. In 1957 Bud joined the Boulder Creek Volunteer Fire Department and faithfully served his community for over 38 years, 25 of those for which he served as the Fire Chief. He was known throughout Santa Cruz County as a dedicated Fire Service Professional. He was also a much loved Rural Carrier and worked with the Boulder Creek Post Office for over 20 years. An avid outdoorsman who passed down that love of the great outdoors to many of his loved ones. For the past 17 years Bud has been married to his loving wife, Mary Lou Tomlin. During that time they dedicated their lives to each other, their children, their church, and their wonderful adventures of travel. Bud is survived by his wife Mary Lou Tomlin of Boulder Creek, son and daughter-in law Robert Jr. and Wendy Tomlin of Auburn Wyoming; daughter Debby Ullrich of Portola, Ca; step children Mark, Chris, Kerry, and Greg Bailey of Northern California, and three grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Bud also leaves behind a great many friends and will always be known as a man who died as courageously as he lived his life. The family would like to thank Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Solomon, Dr. Arcangeli, and the medical staff at the Satellite Dialysis Center. And much appreciation to Hospice of Santa Cruz County that took such wonderful care of Bud. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Felton Presbyterian Church or Boulder Creek Volunteer Fire Department. Services will be at Felton Presbyterian Church on Tuesday, September 27, 2011 beginning at 1:30 pm, followed with a reception at Boulder Creek Volunteer Fire Department at 3:00 pm the same day.