DALLAS, Texas — J.R. (Bob) Minick, a beloved husband, father and friend passed away peacefully on January 2 after a brave battle with cancer.

Bob grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, and had a passion for art at an early age. His career path was solidified when, after high school, he moved to California to live and work with his aunt and uncle, Owen and Dolly Pope, in the only house on the grounds at Disneyland. They were the original managers of the Circle D ranch at Disneyland, and the house is still there — historically restored. This area was known as the Pony Farm and at one time, the Pope’s with Bob’s help, cared for as many as 220 animals. The Popes and Bob Minick are the only people to actually ever live at Disneyland.

Working in that environment, in the early stages of Disneyland, with the influence of the late great Walt Disney provided fuel for Bob’s imagination and artistic ability.

After working at and managing several large theme parks, Bob founded Minick Associates, a world renowned Design and Architectural Firm. He specialized in entertainment venues and theme parks with impressive projects from Dubai to the Fort Worth Stockyards. His insider knowledge and management of theme parks gave him a unique perspective to crowd flow and profitability. He was the first to design games in a park, designing the skill game operations at Six Flags over Texas and many more.

He married the love of his life, Lottie, and they spent the last 42 years on a fabulous adventure, working together on unique projects around the world. Their relationship was a true partnership in every sense, they encouraged each others creativeness. They enjoyed working together at operations from Billy Bob’s Texas to the State Fair of Texas. Their son James Randall has inherited his parents amazing artistic talents. He is a student at the University of North Texas.

Bob has friends in all walks of life and all parts of the world. He was a loyal friend who always had a positive attitude and smile on his face. He is described by all who knew him as a kind gentleman, always making generous gifts to friends and strangers.

To perpetuate his kindness, in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Bob Minick’s memory to his Random Acts of Kindness Fund, c/o Bronco Productions, LLC; P.O. Box 77233, Fort Worth, Texas 76177.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bob and Punkin Minick. He is survived by wife Lottie, and son James Randall of Dallas, Cousin Billy Minick of Argyle, and a wide range of friends who are part of their extended family.

A celebration of life is planned for January 24 from 1 to 5 p.m. at their Dallas home, a place where Bob loved to entertain.

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