Robert James Mahoney Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

1951 ~ 2014 Robert "Bob" James Mahoney, passed away to be with our Heavenly Father on November 19, 2014. Born February 26, 1951, in Salt Lake City, he became the youngest son of Ellen and Matthew. He attended Irving Junior High and then graduated from South High in 1969. While growing up he was an avid skier who loved working on cars. One of his first jobs was at the mechanic shop near his home. After graduation, he joined the Army and served his country during the Vietnam War. Upon returning to the U.S., he started working at Union Pacific Railroad. Soon after, he had two sons: Matthew and Ryan. Then later he met Carol at Parents Without Partners, they soon married in 1984 and recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary. Bob was an avid Volkswagen fan who could rebuild an engine with one arm tied around his back. He also loved Coca Cola (we believe he single-handedly kept them in business during the recession), wearing Superman shirts to match the curl on his forehead, and caring for his pet dogs. Known for his stories, he loved reminiscing about being an intercollegiate champion. According to Bob he successfully competed in pole vaulting, hurtles, discus, the long-jump, football, soccer, lacrosse, and any other sport that fit into the telling of a good tall tale. As his children, and then grandchildren, grew up he loved teasing them that he played for all their favorite bands before they became famous. He played for the Doors back when they were called the Windows, The Beatles back when they were called the Bugs, and Guns 'n Roses back when they were called Pistols and Tulips. While at the railroad he became a plumber, pipe fitter, welder, locomotive mechanic, sheet metal worker, and other certifications. He loved fixing things and eventually became an accomplished carpenter who built several improvements to his home including custom flower boxes and a spare bedroom. And never one to get one-upped, he loved a good prank, whether on himself or others. After 20 years of service at Union Pacific, Bob retired and became a relentless tinker. His hobby created many projects such as a wooden beating heart, music boxes, hand-carved etches, and a functioning mechanical reproduction of the solar system in the ceiling of his room. Bob was a man who prided himself in a good story to make people laugh. If you knew Bob in any capacity, he made it his business to make you smile. Towards the end of his life, his passion centered around family, particularly his grandchildren. Passing on his knowledge of mechanics, welding, and the importance of family entered into every conversation. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, November 29, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at the Walnut Hills LDS Chapel located at 5938 West 6200 South, Kearns, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the same location.

Robert James Mahoney

November 23, 2014