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Founder of old Central Garage diesBy CRAIG BASSE, Times Obituaries Editor© St. Petersburg Times published October 8, 2002 ST. PETERSBURG -- Robert A. "Bob" Bauman, a retired owner and operator of Central Garage, once a downtown landmark, died Monday (Oct. 7, 2002) at Edward White Hospital. He was 80. Mr. Bauman, whose garage was a predecessor of the new Super Parts Automotive Warehouse at Central Plaza, died about a week after checking into the hospital with back pains, said John Cannon, one of the owners of Super Parts. He said Mr. Bauman died of a heart attack. In 1948, Mr. Bauman gave up a well-paying job as a Chicago tool and die maker and went to work for his father, Richard, a partner in Curtiss Storage Garage at Third Avenue S and Third Street. Less than two years later, Curtiss Storage was replaced by Central Garage with young Mr. Bauman in control. With a towing contract from the city, the garage enjoyed success. Trucks rumbled through the streets at all hours, hauling broken-down cars and crumpled wrecks. He retired in 1983. Central Garage remains part of Florida Automotive Distributing Inc., the parent company of Super Parts Automotive, which took over the old Ward store at Central Plaza. Cannon and Mr. Bauman's sons, Robb, Ron and Michael, own the business. Mr. Bauman was a member of Lakewood United Methodist Church and the Antique Automobile Club of America. He was a Distinguished President of the St. Petersburg Optimist Club and was active in Festival of States parades. He was a former member of the Lakewood Country Club, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, and the Polywogs. He was formerly on the board of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce. In World War II, he served in the Navy. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Margaret; a daughter, Marcie Ahlstrand, Bradenton; three sons, Robb, St. Petersburg, Ron, Tampa, and Michael, Fort Myers; and seven grandchildren. A memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Homes & Cremation Tribute Center-Ninth Street Chapel, 2201 Dr. M.L. King (Ninth) St. N. The family suggests memorial contributions to the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, 70 35th St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33711. -- Information from Times files was used in this obituary.
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