Robert (Bob) GroomOctober 20, 1945 - August 5, 2015Robert (Bob) Groom, age 69, passed away on August 5, 2015 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on October 20, 1945 in Pocatello to Dr. Corwin E. and Marjorie C. Groom, the second of four brothers and older sister. Robert attended local schools, graduating from Pocatello Senior High in 1963 and Gonzaga University in 1968. He enjoyed his summers at the family cabin on Hebgen Lake, Montana and became an accomplished water skier. Robert served his country during the Vietnam War in the Army as a Supply Sergeant, stationed near the DMZ in South Korea. After an honorable discharge he returned to Pocatello and worked as business manager at a local car dealership. He subsequently worked at Idaho State University as the postal service operations manager. He was an active member of the Association of Rocky Mountain College and University Mail Services. On Groundhog Day, February 2, 1992, Robert married Jennifer Ann in Pocatello becoming father to Donald Lewis. Both he and Jennifer were active in animal rescue in the Pocatello area. Following his retirement from Idaho State University, Robert became Operations Manager of The Rankin Motel in Ashton, Idaho. Robert's love of the country and growing up in the area provided travelers with insider advice for their journeys. He loved the hospitality industry and never minded working all day, every day for eight months at a time. He did the impossible and made it look easy. You would know Robert by his cowboy hat and ever-welcoming demeanor. He was described by Trip Advisor as "the consummate concierge and GPS". It was Robert's unflagging dedication to The Rankin that made it one of the highest rated lodging establishments in the area. Robert was preceded in death by his parents and sister Patricia Jones. He is survived by Jennifer Ann, Donald and Nikolet, their daughter Addison whom Robert adored. His 'adopted' granddaughters Estefany and Nancy were a joy to him. He is also survived by his brothers Peter (Linda) of Pocatello, Richard (Eileen), of Prescott, AZ, and Michael of Arlington, VA. as well as nieces and nephews Curtis Jones and Kitty (Bill) Bullock of Pocatello, Samantha (Jim) Crowe of Seattle,WA and Corwin Groom of Duluth, MN, Jennifer, Karen and Jarod Haskin of Denton, TX, and Harrison and Dahlton Grover of Boise, ID. He is also survived by his beloved dogs Lady and Roxie, who miss him dearly. Private funeral services are being arranged through Downard Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Bannock Humane Society.