ROBERT (BOB) F. ROCKWELL, JR.
NOV. 8, 1911–APRIL 17, 2009

In Mary Elizabeth Wahlig’s book, For Real, Bob Rockwell: The Man and his Collection, she observes that “Bob, [is] a man as genuine and as real as the art he admires…” Yes, this Renaissance man built collections that are the envy of art enthusiasts world-wide. He single handedly assembled the largest collection of Western art east of the Mississippi now housed in the Rockwell Museum of Western Art named after him. “In itself, this is a phenomenal accomplishment but is rendered nearly incomprehensible by his equally impressive and extensive collection of Carder Steuben glass and antique toys.” “…Bob has collected ‘some 500 paintings’ which include ’85 paintings and sculptures by Russell and 35 paintings by Remington.’ Bob attests that his Carder Steuben glass collection numbers nearly five thousand pieces and that his antique toy collection approximates five hundred toys.”

“Bob, himself, is a rare find; he is a man whose naturalness and simplicity of style voice his essential integrity and explain his astounding success.”

A few of the comments from Carder Steuben collectors
As with all others who know or knew of him, I was sorry to learn of Mr. Rockwell’s passing and wish to extend my condolences to his family. The Carder Steuben world has lost a truly great man.

How very sad indeed. Bob is the reason I ever got into collecting Carder Steuben glass. His enthusiasm was contagious and his knowledge vast.

I was so saddened this morning when I read my e-mails and learned of the passing of Mr. Rockwell. What a remarkable man and what a wonderful full life he had. It was an honor to have known him and to have him as our friend. He will be greatly missed.
So sorry to hear that….he was such a major force in shaping the field………

One of the fondest memories I have of Mr Rockwell was when I took my young son Erik to visit his shop in Corning. Erik was probably about 7 or 8 at the time. Bob winked at me and asked Erik which piece of Steuben would he like Mom to take home to Canada. Erik said “That piece there with the fur on it” pointing to an old wolverine skin that Bob kept in the store. Bob began to laugh heartily, and so did I, and so did some other customers in the store, and finally Erik began to laugh heartily as well, although he probably did not know why. It was a great moment. Bob then took us across the road for hotdogs, a great favorite of Erik’s at the time. Bob seemed to have a special love for young kids.

In my buying and selling and visiting with Bob, he was always helpful, and generous with his time and knowledge. He was a pleasure to be with and we always looked forward to seeing him on our trips to Corning. We will miss him.
And then the many who simply said
Please extend our sympathies to the Rockwell family and friends. Bob Rockwell will be greatly missed. My condolences to the Rockwell family.