Obituary of Robert L. Tafejian

Robert L. “Taffy” Tafejian passed away at his home on July 15, 2014. He was born May 2, 1931 in Chicago to Naomi and Thomas Tafejian. In 1948, the family moved to Santa Barbara, California, where Bob finished his schooling, graduating from Santa Barbara High. After a short time at the old UCSB, he enlisted in the US Air Force and joined the Air Force Band, playing the French horn. As time went on, he joined his father in Tafejian’s Oriental Rugs. Music was a big part of Bob’s life. He sang tenor with the Santa Barbara Choral Society where he met his future wife, Helen M. Canfield. They were married in 1957 and started their family, having three sons. In 1962, Bob was introduced to The Society for Barbershop Singing and he enjoyed that hobby from then on. He loved golf and playing cards, bridge and poker. In 1977, he started Taffy’s Pizza with a partner, the late Carlo Bottiani. Taffy’s continues to be a popular restaurant in Santa Barbara. In 2000, Bob and Helen moved to Olympia, Washington to be near their sons and grandchildren. Bob is survived by his wife of 57 years; sons, Robert T. and John (Cheryl); grandchildren, Jessica, Thomas, Melanie and Jacob; and great granddaughter, Courtney. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his son, David; and sister, Bonnie. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Barbershop Harmony Foundation. Please leave memories of Bob or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.