Robert "Bob" Mars

On February 9th, Laguna Beach resident Robert “Bob” Mars passed away at the age of 59. While his untimely death shocked those who came to accept Bob as a constant embodiment of strength and vitality, it was his alluring persona that will continue to propel his legacy beyond the realm of the physical and into the club of legends.

Bob Mars was born on October 27th, 1949 and he spent his rebellious youth immersed in the spirited Los Angeles motorcycle scene. His excitement for the cultural offerings of the 50s and 60s helped broaden his deep-seated love for personal expression and life. These passions eventually helped lure him to the artistic haven of Laguna Beach in 1968.

Behind the wheel of one of his many beloved Harley Davidsons, Bob rode into town one summer day, and for all those who can still recall, Laguna was never the same.

People immediately gravitated to Bob’s charismatic behavior and his dedicated commitment to celebration. He was a solid friend to everyone who shared his devotion to living and a pronounced protector of those in need.

Bob’s public notoriety blossomed when his innate knack for the cooking came to prominence in many of Laguna’s most respected establishments. He achieved five-star status as a chef, but it was the discovery of his dearest friend, Patsy Tartaglia, which made his kitchen residency a priceless investment. She was a vegetarian waitress at a steakhouse and he was a meat-loving chef. Although their eatable philosophies differed greatly, their hearts were far more compatible. They married on August 30th, 1980 in South Laguna and later formed the popular service company, Five-Star Classic Catering.

Sadly, Bob was diagnosed with terminal cancer this December. From across the country, people flocked to the Mars household to share a series of last hoorahs with a truly inspiring friend. Memorable gatherings were held both day and night until Bob took his last breath in the company of his wife and his three loving children: Majesta, Alex, and Adam.

Bob Mars will live on in the hearts and minds of his family and friends for generations to come. A big cheers to the great Bob Mars!

A private memorial will be held for Bob’s family and close friends on March 15th.