Nominator said:
Robert Clear, known as “Mr. Bob,” has volunteered for decades to direct morning traffic for families dropping off their students at Emerson Elementary School. This month, a car struck him during his bike commute. As a community we have been looking for ways to show him our appreciation during this difficult time – collecting cards and well wishes. In this spirit we are also nominating him for the Chris Kindness Award.
In a recent Berkeley Scanner article his wife Barbara Judd described his contributions (available at: https://www.berkeleyscanner.com/2025/09/18/traffic-safety/after-bike-collision-berkeley-school-rallies-mr-bob/).
Ms. Bob attended Emerson in the 1950s. In the 1990s, his kids did, too.
When his children were in school, Clear noticed how traffic would back up outside Emerson as the day began.
“The bus drivers had to wait for parents dropping their kids off,” Judd said. “People were just not keeping it moving.”
Clear decided to begin directing traffic, opening car doors to help the kids get out, greeting families.
“He learned everyone’s name. He’s good at recognizing people,” said Judd.
When his kids moved on to middle school, “he saw no reason to stop.”
After his accident, his daughter Emily took his place as one of Emerson’s morning traffic volunteers, which was a touching gesture.
We have benefited from Mr. Bob’s daily acts of kindness as a community and we want to say THANK YOU for his years of service his the place in our social fabric. We await your return Mr. Bob!
