Robert Nathaniel “Bob” Kroll (1939-2024) was born and raised in Buffalo, New York, where he attended school and met and married his beloved Penny. They had one daughter, Julie.
Bob proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. Later, Bob founded Kroll Marketing and served as a manufacturer’s representative until his retirement.
Bob, Penny and Julie relocated to Southern California in the mid 1980s. They joined Songmakers in February 1986. Bob was a great guitarist, known especially for his extraordinary flamenco guitar prowess. He was also a talented singer. He and Penny could really light up a hoot, party or campout. For many years, Bob, Kay Conroy and Ann Howitt performed as the Desert Wind Trio and were known for their tight harmonies.
In 1998, Bob teamed up with John Donn to revive the long-running Fireside Concert Series in Newbury Park. John stepped aside after a couple of years. Bob continued to host the series five times per year for over twenty years, until he handed the reins over to Ron Bloom and Carol Schryver (AKA The MacMammals), who are doing a wonderful job of carrying on the tradition.
Bob passed away in Thousand Oaks, California on February 1, 2024 following a short illness.
Bob was predeceased by his wife Penny in 2017. He is survived by his daughter, Julie Kroll.
Efforts are underway to organize a memorial hoot in Bob’s honor. Details will be provided when they become available.