Â
"I'm the least important person you'll ever interview," said 86-year-old Robert "Bob" Mansfield. He was filled with humility during an interview with 2 News on Sunday. But many members of the community disagree with his statement. Mansfield's friends from the Reno Elks Lodge say his deep roots in the Reno community have made a huge impact in many lives.
The Navy Veteran has an impressive resume that includes work with the Reno Fire Department, Reno Rodeo Association, and Sierra Pacific Power, which is now known as NV Energy. Mansfield also made large contributions to the Reno Elks Lodge.
"He's a past Exalted Ruler of our lodge," said its current Exalted Ruler, Sean Brennan. "He's also a past Elk of the Year, and to win Elk of the Year, you have to be someone who really gives back to the community. Our lodge has given over $8.5 Million back to the community and Bob has been an Elk for 50 something years."
Mansfield's friends and family held a Birthday Drive-By for his 86th birthday celebration on Sunday morning. Community members wanted to find a way to honor him even during a time of social distancing. A parade of decorated cars drove by the long-time Reno resident's house. Washoe County Sheriff's Office, including Sheriff Darin Balaam took part in the tribute, with sirens blaring and birthday wishes being shouted from squad cars.
With tears in his eyes, Mansfield expressed gratitude for the overwhelming turnout on his big day.Â
"The wind was blowing and getting dust in my eye," he joked. "To take time out of their day to come out and say 'hi' was very emotional to me."
Brennan said, "We have a saying that BPOE means Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, but it actually unofficially stands for Best People on Earth. And when we talk about a guy like Bob Mansfield, he truly is one of the best people on earth."
