Robert Tomlinson

Robert Tomlinson May 24, 1950 - March 6, 2016 Robert Wayne "Bluchie" Tomlinson lost his courageous fight with a rare lung disease known as B.O.O.P. (Bronchiolitis Obliterans Organizing Pneumonia) and passed away at San Jose Kaiser Hospital early Sunday morning, March 6, 2016. He was survived and will be sorely missed by his devoted and loving wife of 41 years, Verdie Tomlinson, his three sons, Darnell, Brian, Shawn, as well as, Thomas and Dominique, who were like sons to him, his grandchildren Isaiah, Scarlett, and Willow, his mother Ruth Tomlinson, his brothers Roger and Harvey Jr., his sisters, Marsha, Marcel, Darlene, Dorene and Louise Bailey, brother-in-law, Darrell Ellis, daughter-in-laws, Shria and Reyna, and a host of nieces and  nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Brian Elias Tomlinson II. Father Harvey Sr. and Bill Brown and his sister Samella Tomlinson. After being told that he would most likely succumb to the disease within two years of contracting it, he waged war against the disease and fought a long and valiant 15 year battle showcasing his resilience, determination, and resolve. Robert was born in Wilmington, Delaware on May 24, 1950 to Ruth and Harvey "Tommy" Tomlinson.  He came to California when was twelve years old. He graduated from Merced High and attended Merced College and San Jose City College.Among his many endeavors, his most memorable and noteworthy accomplishment may have been when he owned and operated Unique Video which was the third video store opened in San Jose in 1982.  He owned and operated Unique Video, Star Video, and Video Plus for over ten years until he exited the industry to pursue other interests.  His entrepreneurial spirit led him to test his skills in other areas resulting in time in computer networking, real estate and desktop publishing. Early on he was an accomplished and avid baseball player who played semi-pro ball. He touched many people's lives through his selflessness and generosity; opening his doors and sharing his meals with family and friends in need.  He always put people close to him first, and was truly an example of strength and character to all that understood him. The viewing will be held on Thursday, March 17th from 5pm-9pm at Chapel of Flowers at 900 S Second St, San Jose, CA 95112. The ceremony will be held on Friday, March 18th at 11:00am at Chapel of Flowers. The burial will immediately follow the services at Oak Hill Memorial Park at 1pm. The Tomlinson family will be hosting a Memorial for Robert on Saturday, March 19th at 1:00pm at Second Baptist Church, 501 Q Street, Merced, CA 95340. www.cvobituaries.com