Bob Arias at 85: A Symphony of Wisdom, Laughter, and Life

In the golden twilight of his years, Bob Arias stands as a monumental testament to a life brimming with tales that could fill volumes, wisdom that could guide nations, and a spirit so invigorating it could rejuvenate the weary soul. At 85, Bob isn’t just walking through his later years; he’s blazing a trail of inspiration, weaving a rich tapestry of experiences that echo the essence of a life lived fully and fiercely. Every aspect of Bob’s existence is a masterclass in embracing life with open arms. This ordinary man has become my idol, and it is a privilege to know him.

My wife and I met Bob Arias at what I will call an Expat Meetup located at the Gran Hotel Azuero in Chitré, Panama. This was their weekly get together of expats, mainly from the U.S. and Canada. Bob has a title: Citizen Liaison Volunteer, and he keeps the group informed of:

• Weekly meetings.
• Community events and fundraisers.
• Updates us on Embassy stuff.
• U.S. Veteran Affairs and Voting procedures.
• Government warnings and announcements.
• And anything else that comes up.

Bob is a great communicator and storyteller. When I walked into our first meeting, he approached me and asked my name and where I was from. We immediately had something in common; we both served in the U.S. military, and his father was a career military man. He knew what I meant when I told him that I don’t have a hometown, but I claim Colorado as my home state because that’s where I spent most of my life after the military, even though I was born in Fort Knox, Kentucky, where my father was stationed at the time. He claims California as his home state.

Bob is no ordinary man. He is 85 and is constantly moving and socializing. He travels by bus to Panama City, a 4-5 hour trip, to attend U.S. Embassy meetings. He travels with friends to other places in Panama just for fun – and coffee. He goes to BBQs and meets me and my wife at a coffee shop, different community events, or a restaurant. He comes over to play cards. He reads a lot and has book exchanges at the meetings on occasion. He takes photos and has calendars made every year to give away as gifts. He’s constantly giving others meaningful gifts just for the heck of it. He makes his own coffee (he learned how in Colombia) and gives that away, too.

One of the things that I really enjoy is when he invites me to have coffee with him. We’ll pick a local coffee shop like Baro’s Cafe, Kahua Coffee Bar, La Bruja Cafe, Pan and Cake, or the Rex Hotel and meet up around 8:30 a.m. What love about Bob is that he knows everybody. And everybody knows him! Almost every cafe has a mug to honor him – I guess just for being Bob. We recently visited Baro’s Cafe (which turns out to be our favorite so far), and the lady (her name is Luz) who serves us brought Bob’s coffee out in a mug they had created just for him – with his picture on it. The Rex Hotel had a mug for Bob with his nickname, Flaco Bob, on it. What a lucky man you are, Bob!

Bob spent many years with the Peace Corps and has served in many countries (see video below). I enjoy hearing the stories, especially the ones that make me want to write a fictional novel. In one scene, his girlfriend arrives, and events happen out of his control. Wait! Bob to the rescue! We’ll sneak her through the Russian Embassy! And life for Bob continues on. I find myself shaking my head at some of his stories. And I’m certain that they’re all true.

Bob is full of resources. He gave us wallet-sized cards with emergency numbers to call. Someone created an Excel spreadsheet with a list of notable doctors, dentists, and hospitals, and he ensured everyone received a copy. He looks out for all of us. Bob doesn’t see gender, race, or political ties. He sees you as a human being. He’ll go out of his way to help or find someone to help you if you need something. Thanks, Bob! I want to be like you someday.