Robert Mishler Memorial

April 28, 1937 – May 24, 2020

With the 2020 passing of Bob Mishler, the foundation’s founding board chairman and guiding light, our board members explored ways to honor Bob’s memory and continue his efforts toward, “Helping Las Vegas Thrive”. 

Starting a Bob Mishler Memorial Fund within the foundation was an obvious first step, but not very tangible. Completing Bob’s dream of restoring the historic Gordons Jewelry street clock became a way of visibly recognizing Bob’s contributions to the community.

Bob and his wife Ann raised their sons Thomas and David in Las Vegas, where he was a New Mexico Highlands University anthropology professor.  Bob was also chair of the Friends of City  Las Vegas Museum Board, a member of the Historic Districts Design Review Board and the Citizens Committee for Historic Preservation.

So far, 64 donors from 13 states have contributed $16,635 to the memorial fund.  A portion of the money donated went to restore the Gordons clock. 

Part of the fund goes to an award program to honor individuals who have devoted years to improving life in San Miguel and Mora County communities.

The first Bob Mishler Community Impact Award went to retired educator Rosalie Lopez., who has been instrumental in the formation of several local charitable organizations:

The current Samaritan House Homeless Shelter

First Born of Northern New Mexico, and 

HOPE, which enables older people to live in their own homes as long as possible instead of having to move to a care home.

In addition, the award committee created a “Spirit of Philanthropy” award to honor, “a person young enough that it couldn’t be said that his or her entire life has yet been devoted to service.” That award went to Olivia Silva, owner of Olivia’s Café.

Donations to the Bob Mishler Memorial Fund are still accepted online here or by mail to Las Vegas New Mexico Community Foundation, PO Box 1002, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701.