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John Robert “Bob” Hewat was born in Simcoe, Ontario, Canada on May 23rd, 1924 and passed away on August 11, 2024. He was the son of the late John Andrew and Myrtle Winnifred Messecar Hewat.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Yvonne Lail Hewat; his daughter, Susan Hewat Parker; and his second wife, Mary Walton Hewat.
Bob is survived by his sons John R. Hewat, Jr and wife, Tania of Morganton; Bill Hewat and wife, Angie, of Goshen, Arkansas; his son-in law, Gary Parker, of Fuquay-Varina, NC; and his brother Harold Hewat of Hickory. In addition, he is survived by grandchildren Lauren McLamb (Brian), and Katie Walker (Waylon) both from the Raleigh area; Bailey Buchanan (Trevor) from Morganton; Will Hewat of Charleston, SC; Emma Hewat of Charlotte, NC; and Gracie Hewat of Clarksville, AR. Pop also is a great-grandfather to Raylee and Case Buchanan; Will and Maggie Walker; and Brayden, Lena and Ella Parker.
Bob taught his sons the value of hard work and frugality through leading by example. His life during the Great Depression fashioned an unparalleled work ethic that coursed his entire life. Bob was a US Army veteran of World War II and served in the Middle Eastern Theater, on the Persian Corridor, protecting ally supply lines destined to the fight on the Eastern Front. Bob taught High School at Gamewell, Valdese and Freedom High Schools and refereed high school sports during his teaching tenure. Of particular interest, Bob was known for his love of the Blue Ridge Parkway where he served over 50 years as a seasonal park ranger and naturalist. Smokey, as he was lovingly called, met many friends, and provided help for many park visitors over his career. After his retirement from teaching, he was known to get in his truck and drive across the country visiting any national park, monument, preserve, or historic site. One of the highlights of his Parkway career was tracking the construction of the Lynn Cove Viaduct around Grandfather Mountain. He was a devout member of the First Presbyterian Church of Morganton.
John Robert Hewat’s life is a reminder that humility, honesty, and frugality are traits that remain incredibly important today. In his 100 years on this Earth, Bob saw many changes. However, his wholesomeness, wit, and chivalry never wavered. He was truly one of the last of the Greatest Generation. To know Bob was to love him, and those who love him understand what a privilege that was.
The memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, August 15, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Lyndsay Beaulieu officiating. The family will greet friends following the service.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys as you celebrate a life well lived. Our deepest sympathies, The Reynolds family
I remember Mr. Hewat being at Drexel School probably in the 1960’s or 70’s. Everyone liked him as well as his sweet wife Mary. A long life well lived. My condolences to his family and friends.
John, Bill and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you mourn the loss of Bob and celebrate his wonderful life. The whole Crouch family has such wonderful memories that go way back to the 60’s when we were all kids. He was always a good neighbor to Mom and Dad all throughout the years. Debbie says she’ll never forget how supportive he was for her during a very challenging time in high school. He was a special person indeed. Blessings to you all.
Rejoicing in a life well-lived. With heartfelt sympathy from the Boushelle family - Fayetteville, AR.
I worked with Bob between 2007-2014 when he was volunteering at Linville Falls for the maintenance division. Bob loved the Parkway more than life itself, and he was always concerned about the maintenance and upkeep of the grounds and facilities. I had many great times working with Bob. He was a dedicated and honest man through and through. I had the utmost respect and admiration for him. I'm confident Bob is looking over the Parkway wearing his Ranger hat! My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones!
Sending our prayers and condolences from Greene County Pennsylvania to your family.
Bob picked me up on my first day of work on the parkway. I never could handle a patrol vehicle like Bob could. Through the years we worked together nearly every day. He took me under his wing and taught me the art of rangering that would guide me for the rest of my career. Bob coached, counseled, guided and nurtured the rangers, volunteers, maintenance workers and park neighbors. We are better people because of Bob's example and guidance. I am fortunate to have known him. Through 38 years in the National Park Service he was always one of the best! He will live on imy my thoughts and gratitude.