Robert George Ronstadt was born on February 8, 1953 in Tucson, AZ to Edward Frederick and Mary Catherine Ronstadt who predeceased him along with his sister, Terry Carter. He was the 7th of 12 Children and a 4th Generation Tucsonan of the esteemed Ronstadt Family. His grandfather, Federico Jose Maria Ronstadt, was a pioneering figure in the local music scene and his cousin Linda Ronstadt achieved international acclaim. He spent his life writing, singing, and orchestrating many music projects with band members, family and friends. His influence on the Tucson music scene and beyond made a great impact on hundreds, if not thousands of people, all who would call him their friend. He has certainly passed this love for music on to his children and grandchildren.

As a young boy, Bobby was sent to kindergarten for piano lessons as he seemed to have an ear for music. His musical journey continued in his teenage years when he joined his older brother John's band, "The Null Set", in the late sixties. He later formed the "Paul Ludwig Group", performing in the Tucson club circuit during the early 1970's. In 1977, Bobby moved to Los Angeles where he continued to write and record music, collaborating with family members, including his brother John and cousin Michael.

In 1994, after experiencing the Northridge earthquake, Bobby returned to his hometown of Tucson. He immersed himself in the local music scene, hosting open mic nights and participating in various musical projects. Notably, he was a member of the vocal group "I Hear Voices!' from 2013-2018 and played accordion with "P.D. Ronstadt and The Company".

Bobby released his first album, "Shadows in the Dream", in 1999, featuring collaborations with family members and friends. In 2021, he released "Out of the Blue", showcasing his talents as a pianist and singer-songwriter. His compositions, such as "My World", reflect his introspective and heartfelt approach to music. He had just completed his last album which will be released posthumously, titled "In to the Black".

Bobby's contributions to Tucson's musical heritage were profound. He was known for his generosity, warmth, and dedication to fostering a vibrant music community. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue through his music and the countless lives he touched.

Bobby is survived by his twin sons Jeremy and Joshua Ronstadt and their families, including 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings—Jim (Chris) Ronstadt, Margie Meyn, Eddie (Margaret) Ronstadt, John (Jeanne) Ronstadt, Agnes/Cathy (Andy) Poore, Bernadette (Robert) Quiroz, Rose Ronstadt, Joanie Santa Cruz, Paul (Natalie) Ronstadt, Tim (Jessica) Ronstadt and numerous nieces and nephews.

He enjoyed history and documenting his family's ancestry. He was always learning and sharing his knowledge with the family. Papa Bob, or Bobby as he was affectionately called was also an avid photographer, a gift he inherited from his father. He loved to admire the stars and hunt for the desert bloom, Peniocerius Greggii, the Arizona Queen of the Night cactus, absorbing and capturing beautiful images with his camera.

Bobby's love of family and community and his great sense of humor will be sorely missed. Rest in harmony, Bobby. Your music will forever resonate in our hearts.

A celebration of Bobby's life will take place at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 5150 N. Valley View Rd., Tucson, AZ, on May 31st at 10:30 am.