Robert helped to design the glassblowing studio at Tamarack in Beckley, where today glassblowers craft their wares and thousands of customers watch through large glass windows. I remember when Bob was envisioning the studio and working with the blueprints, which were often spread out on the pool table, which he sometimes kept in the living room. When I'd come for a visit, we'd look the blueprints over, possibly make some drawings, and then play pool. Bob invited ideas and criticism from those around him. After we played pool, he and his wife, Veronica, would make the world's greatest pizzas, starting with their own signature dough and sauce. Just smelling the pizzas as they cooked was enough to drive me wild. Each of us had our own pizza, and it was usually late by the time they were served. We talked about glass, psychology, football, metaphysics and religion until the wee hours of the night. Then we'd start again the following morning, and take a trip to the studio to adjust the fires of the furnaces and ovens.

FIGURINES

Robert made delightful and much sought after figurines

The first time I remember watching my uncle blow glass, he made several animal figurines. The little rabbits, whales and rocking horses seemed to come to life right before my eyes. How quickly and easily Uncle Bob made them. I was one of many in the gallery watching him show off his glassblowing skills. I recall him making a special figurine for me, that day, which he almost always did whenever I was present. Yet, I cannot remember what type of animal it was. When he was finished, he always received a round of applause from the audience. Bob made a very large crystal whale, too, which we filled with colorful marbles. Such a whale sat on the dresser in my bedroom for many years.

-- Richard E. Hamon II