Robert Forbuss: A true Las Vegan

The depth of Robert Forbuss's commitment to Southern Nevada was rivaled only by the length of his resume.

Mr. Forbuss died at his home Sunday after a two-year fight with Lou Gehrig's disease. Only 64 years old, he accomplished more than most men could hope to achieve in three lifetimes.

After going to college in California, the native Nevadan returned to Las Vegas to teach at his alma mater, Bishop Gorman High School. He worked as a paramedic during summer breaks, and gradually moved into management and ownership of Mercy Medical Services. He founded and led two emergency medical services associations and became a national leader in the industry before selling his ambulance company and helping run American Medical Response.

Meanwhile, he served on the Clark County School Board from 1979 to 1986; founded what is now Colonial Bank; became chairman of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce; and served on the boards of the Clark County Public Education Foundation, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and The Smith Center for the Performing Arts. He was involved in transportation planning and philanthropy, in education and business consulting. A Las Vegas elementary school and the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada bear his name.

His hard work and generosity were driven by his desire to make the Las Vegas Valley a better place to live.

A celebration of Mr. Forbuss's life will be held at The Smith Center sometime in October. The center is the perfect location because, as in so many of Mr. Forbuss's projects, he helped turn dreams into reality. Rest in peace, Bob Forbuss.