Robert Mitchell Heath, beloved husband, father and grandfather, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Tuesday, June 13, 2017. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah to Susannah Mitchell and Harold Ray Heath. Growing up as one of eight sons, this Heath boy from Holladay, enjoyed a wonderful childhood where his foundation of faith, hard work and love of learning began.
Bob was a 1946 graduate of Davis High School in Kaysville, Utah. Like his father, he served two years in Australia on a mission, for the Church of Latter-day Saints. Upon returning, Bob attended the University of Utah, graduating in 1952. He taught math and science at Granite Jr. High before beginning his dental education.
Sixty years ago, he married his sweetheart, Inez Houtz in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity. He graduated from USC Dental School in 1959. Bob started his family dental practice in Lompoc, California in 1960 and with Inez raised six children.
As a dentist, he was known for his pursuit of perfection. He had a passion for continuing education to better serve his patients and to progress professionally. "Dr. Bob" achieved the status of American Dental Association Lifetime Member. In fifty years, he never missed the annual Southern California Dental Association Convention. Truly he embodied the pillars of a Trojan: faithful, scholarly, skillful, courageous and ambitious. All those who worked with him enjoyed his gentle ways, a song for every situation, and love for his family.
By his children he's remembered for his love of sports, occasionally to the chagrin of Inez for too much USC Trojans football and San Francisco Giants baseball. Fun family memories include his mush in the morning, making work a family endeavor, memorable vacations, a song to lighten your heart, and a style all his own. Together Bob and Inez raised their children weaving a beautiful tapestry of love for the gospel of Jesus Christ and service to others.
His faithful service in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and consistent study and love for the scriptures were the hallmark and foundation of his life. He served diligently in many capacities as Bishop, Stake and Ward Mission Leader, Seminary Teacher, and Home Teacher. As he served, he found much joy in making friends and fun memories along the way. The culminating highlight of a lifetime of service was the 13 years he and Inez spend serving in the Los Angeles Temple.
Bob was a stylish man; charming and tender, tenacious and resourceful. The melody of his life showed in the twinkle of his eye as he embraced life and loved all that it had to offer.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Dick, Dave, George, Tom and Hal. He is survived by his loving wife Inez, children: Michele (J. Leland Elmer), William (Rebecca Ravsten). Carolyn (Ross Stenquist), Douglas (Holly Facer), Bradley (Deborah Killpack), and Fredrick (Tiffany Rhine), 28 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren with 3 on the way, his brothers Joe and Henry, cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed.
A viewing will be held on Monday, June 19, 2017 from 6-8 pm at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary, 123 North A Street, Lompoc, California. A celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1312 West Prune Avenue, Lompoc, California. Viewing 10:30-11:30 am with a Memorial Service beginning at 12 noon. A graveside service will follow immediately after the memorial.