CYBA Executive Director Bob Gorman Dies at 64

Byline: The Log Staff

Bob Gorman, executive director of the California Yacht Brokers Association (CYBA) and a prominent marine industry veteran, died Dec. 22. He was 64.

Gorman began his career in the marine industry in 1965, working as a warehouse worker for Proper Tighe Marine in Alameda, before becoming a route salesperson. He moved on to John Beery Co. in retail sales and developed the John Beery Distributing Co. In 1975, he became regional manager for the Western U.S. for AMF Corp. and in 1979, he started an independent sales representative company, whose clients included the AMF boat lines of Alcort, Paceship, Robalo and Slickcraft.

Gorman’s business evolved into a wholesale and import company, selling Calkins boat trailers and small boats imported from several countries. In 1992, he sold his business to Calkins Manufacturing and remained as its manager until 1995.

Gorman also served on the Northern California Marine Association (NCMA) Board of Directors. During his 17 years on the board, Gorman served two terms as president. He also served as a committee chairman, secretary, treasurer and vice president.

In 1995, Gorman accepted the position of executive director of the NCMA. As executive director of the NCMA, Gorman formed business relationships with Sail America to produce the Pacific Sail Expo, and the Sacramento Valley Marine Association to manage the Sacramento Boat Show and Folsom Water Festival. In addition to the show management for the Sacramento Valley Marine Association (SVMA), the NCMA manages the SVMA and its associate businesses.

Gorman was appointed executive director of CYBA in 2008, and he served both NCMA and CYBA as executive director, maintaining offices in Oakland.

Gorman was the son of past CYBA president Bill Gorman. Bob and his wife, Jeanne, owned a Gulfstar 50, Spirit, berthed at La Paz, Mexico.

A memorial is being planned for later this spring.

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