Obituary of Robert Lex Wescoatt

Robert (Bob) Wescoatt

LTC, USA, (Retired)

Bob was born December 31^st, 1926, in Williams, CA to Lex and Anna (Hauke) Wescoatt, and passed away January 30^th, in Chico.  He leaves behind 3 children, Steven (Carol) of Lewiston, ID, Deborah (Bill) McMillan of Chico, and Rev. Mark (DeeDee) of Guymon, OK, and step-daughter Gail Miller, of Chico.  In addition, he leaves behind 5 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his wife, and one granddaughter.  In April, 1948, he married Alice Dodge, and in June 1970, he married Lois Quest.

Enlisting in the Navy in February 1944, he served in the North Pacific aboard USS LST 683, and was honorably discharged in Mary 1946.  Bob attended Golden Empire College of Commerce and upon graduation he was employed by Sierra Tractor and Equipment, and was then employed by Victor Industries for 29 years, rising to VP/Plant Manager.  In 1978, he was employed by Norfield Manufacturing, then Crosby Paint (as President) and Chabin Corp/3M, retiring in March 1989.

He helped reactivate the California National Guard units in Chico, enlisting in April 1947.  He was commissioned in May 1950, retiring after 24 years of active and reserve time as a Lieutenant Colonel, commanding the 3^rd Battalion, 149^th Armor, 49^th Infantry Division.  He was qualified as a Nuclear Weapons Employment Officer.

Bob was a life member of the Military Officers Association of America and was Past President of the local chapter.  He was an ardent golfer, belonging to the Butte Creek Country Club where he served on the Board of Director for 2 terms and served as President.  He was a past member and past president of the Chico Exchange Club, and Chico Elks #423.  He was an ardent supporter of the local blood bank, having donated 240 pints of blood and platelets.  He enjoyed motor home traveling with his wife, Lois, and golfed many courses as they traveled.  Besides traveling 45 of the 50 United States, they enjoyed international travels. 

Services are scheduled at Brusie Funeral home on Friday, March 24^th at 11:00, with military honors graveside at Glen Oaks Memorial Park afterwards.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to “Vectors” (transitional housing for veterans) in care of the Brusie Funeral Home.