Beale, Robert Bob

Robert was a member of the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus from April, 1979 until February, 1984 for a total of 18 concert seasons. He also participated in the historic 1981 National Tour of nine cities in the United States. The tour is credited with being the creative force behind the formation of the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses which as of 2010 has more than 170 member choruses with over 7,000 singers worldwide. He last sang as a member of the Bass section. The Chorus refers to these members who are no longer able to sing with the group as members of the "Fifth Section." They are listed Chorus programs and on the group's website: https://www.sfgmc.org/about_fifth.shtml

I was at Bobby's bedside, along with his family, during his last hours as he lay in bed, unconscious, gasping for air, at SF General. A few days later I was on a plane for a long planned first trip abroad. I should have been excited about the trip, but all I could think about was poor, poor lovable Bobby.. THE person who would normally win a Full of Life contest, now gone. I couldn't forget him then, and I can't, now.

I remember Bob to this day. He was a friend of my Uncle Jimmy. He was the first person I ever had a crush on. He was so handsome, funny, and full of life. He made an impression on me when I first met him when I was 12 and really for the rest of my life. I was happy to go on a web search and see his name and picture. He has not been forgotten even though he passed away so long ago as has my beloved Uncle Jimmy.