Robert Alan Eakes – OBITUARY
On Tuesday, August 3, 2021, Robert Alan Eakes of Frisco, NC passed away after a swift but stoic battle. Bob grew up in Greensboro, NC. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Kara Marie Eakes, son Robert (Bobby) Alan Eakes, Jr., his three brothers Charles (Emma), Martin (Bonnie), and Marshall (Laurie) Eakes, John and Sandra Twardasky (in-laws), and sister-in-laws, Laura Brogley (Bernie), Sharon Lindberg (Dan), and Gail Williams (Johnny). He also leaves wonderful memories and lessons with his extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, tackle shop family, and of course so many friends. Bob has owned and operated the Red Drum Tackle Shop, Inc. in Buxton, NC since 1977 and has since devoted his life to his love of fishing. He touched the lives of many in the Outer Banks fishing community and around the world through the many visitors to the Red Drum Tackle Shop and in his travels. Bob served on the Board of Directors for the American Sportfishing Association (2006-2012), on the Governmental Affairs Committee for the American Sportfishing Association, was Recreational Advisor to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Advisor Committee, served on the North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission, participated in the Blue Fin Tuna “Tag-A- Giant” tagging program, and was a member of the Negotiated Rulemaking Advisor Committee for Off-Road Vehicle Management, Cape Hatteras National Seashore. He has been recognized by the ASA, the Billfish Foundation, and the Audubon Society for his efforts and with a Vice-Presidential Hero of Conservation Award. His contributions to the fishing industry are too numerous to mention. He regularly supported surf fishing events on the Outer Banks, the Outer Banks Preservation Association (OBPA), and participated in the annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament on the BullFrog. He was always there on the south Outer Banks beaches and waters and was generous in sharing his knowledge and extra tackle with those in need. But his greatest accomplishment will always be his son Bobby. When he wasn’t fishing, Bob and his family were also avid hunters. Bob will be missed by many. Thank you for your outpouring of love and support. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club or the Cape Hatteras Secondary School Baseball Team.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later time.
I remember Bob as an enthusiastic authoritative source of information for Cape Hatteras fishing.
Kara and Bobby - We are so sorry to learn of Bob's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your extended family as you move into the future without him. He was a good friend and I will always carry fond memories of Hatteras fishing. OUr hearts are sad.
Love, Robin and Laurel
So sorry for your loss. Great memory's fishing on the Bullfrog with him. Love ,Matt Williams
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers go out to Kara and Bobby and the whole RDT family.
Ricky Trent
I don't believe we have ever known a person more passionate about family and outdoor recreation than Bob. He pursued outdoor recreation and the management of fishery resources with zeal, inviting others to join him and learn about fishing, hunting, and the many natural resources of the Outer Banks. He gave generously of himself and his resources to further recreational fishing, not just in his community but around the world. We have lost a good friend, a champion of recreational fishing and fishery management. His many contributions are his legacy. Gordon and Sue Robertson
On behalf of American Tackle Company, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to the Eakes Family. The entire team at American Tackle will truly miss working with Bob, he was always professional, polite and kind. - We're so sorry for your loss.
I enjoyed talking with Bob in the shop... I'll miss that, along with many, many, MANY other fishermen.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Love, Amy
Prayers go out to Bobby and Kara. Sorry for your loss. Eddie and Debbie Stanley
Prayers go out to Bobby and Kara. Sorry for your loss. Eddie and Debbie Stanley
Prayers go out to Bobby and Kara. Sorry for your loss.
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