Robert Scott

A paddle out is planned to honor and celebrate a loving husband, father, grandfather, healer, inventor and surfer, Bob "Doc" Scott who passed away at Dominican Hospital at the age of 97. Doc as he was affectionately known to all, was born in Warrensburg New York. He started kindergarten at the age of 4 and graduated from High School in 1944 at the age of 16, after being accepted and attending one year at Deep Springs College in California.

He served in both the United States Navy and Army during WW II as a medic, earning the rank of Captain.

Doc graduated from Lausanne/Faculty of Medicine in Switzerland in 1954. He also attended the University at UCLA. After his internship in San Diego and residency in Merced, he served as a General Practitioner and Surgeon in Gilroy, and later in Santa Cruz. Doc never retired from his practice. After closing his office in Capitola, he continued to see patients at his residence.

Upon moving to Santa Cruz in 1969, his passion for surfing held no bounds. A philanthropist for the sport he cherished, Doc sponsored surfing contests worldwide. Always accompanied by his loving wife Janice, the couple visited and surfed destinations around the globe. He will be remembered for his generosity and his compassion for helping and healing his fellow man. Doc surfed until he turned 80, and was the inventor of "Doc's Proplugs" used by professional surfers, divers, and musicians, and sold by ENT's around the world. He also sponsored surfing and free-diving events. Doc helped establish and served as President of the International Surfing Association, as well as the Western Surfing Association. Doc was instrumental in constructing the hand carved stairs that assist surfers getting to the water at The Point by Seal Rock. The initials W.S.A. are carved into the steps thus recognizing the surfing association's involvement.

Doc is preceded in death by his first wife Josette. He leaves their three daughters Olivia Litz, Leslie Scott, and Brenda Scott-Rogers (Craig). His memory will also be cherished by his loving wife of 54 years, Janice, and their two sons; Jeff (Michelle), and Doug Scott; his brother Erik (Mardi), 9 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and protégés Pia and Hiroo.

He was laid to rest with private Military Honors at Holy Cross Cemetery in Santa Cruz. The paddle out will take place on June 30, 2025 at Steamers Lane starting at 10 a.m.

A kind act of charity can be made in his memory to a charity of your choice.

Published in Gilroy Dispatch · March 26, 2025