From the first time I worked for Robert Kennedy, I knew he would become my mentor. We had a connection – It was that simple.
I had recently been invited by Tosca Reno to come by the house on Easter to take some pics of the Bob and the family as his health is failing. Tosca wrote a beautiful entry in her journal about the day. Here’s a link to what she wrote. I urge you to PLEASE take the time to read it over, her coverage is much more eloquent and deserving to the situation. I read it over twice myself.
I’ve always felt very close to Bob, to Tosca and the entire family so I was extremely flattered to be asked to participate in such a special family occasion. What made the day even more memorable was Arnold Schwarzenegger dropping by to visit with Bob.
We used to go for lunch regularly, and would talk about everything under the sun. Largely however, we spoke of photography and the magazine business. His knowledge of the publishing business is limitless. I admit, I didn’t realize how much he taught me at first. But looking back at it now, I’m amazed at everything I’ve come to understand. We’ve grown very close over these talks, and I would always tell people I look up to him like a dad, (A fact I felt too awkward to tell him). We’re close, but I never felt right getting all sentimental. I mean, he’s Robert Kennedy, publisher of MuscleMag – The manliest magazine of them all! One simply doesn’t get all emotional.
So now, I’m glad I got to spend some time alone with him during the visit, just chatting about the good ol’ days, and telling him a couple of horrible jokes I recently heard. I’m also glad I got to tell him personally, what I had only until that time shared with others…just how much he means to me.
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Update
Robert Kennedy : 1938 – 2012
Robert Kennedy passed away today. It’s ironic that the man who had become a father figure to me, passed on my father’s birthday.
Until we meet again my friend.
You can see an amazing photo of the two of us on set together here.
This is a beautiful story, and a beautiful and moving photograph to go with it. Thank you for sharing this with us. And Robert Kennedy’s influence on the industry is immeasurable.
Big hugs to you Paul! This is a difficult time for you and so many close to Bob and his family. xo
While I appreciate the comments tremendously. I ask that you go to Tosca’s blog and send them along to her. She’s the one that truly needs all the support she can get.
Wow……
Many Blessings….
Paul,
I am in tears. This is truly a beauty testament to Bob who is an icon in the publishing industry. From his early days as an art teacher to a giant in publishing. You could not have found a better mentor in your illustrious career.
Beautifully written and so thoughtful. What a blessing Bob has been to millions of people all over the world. He and Tosca are warriors. They are determined to fight fat, build muscle, improve self image and self love. The world is a better place because of them both. Thank you for writing this.
Great picture! The above shows what a nice man Arnold is in my view. They have known each other forever, and that Arnold would fly out to say goodbye to Bob like that, just says volumes to me and you cab bet it meant a lot to Bob and his family.
MMI was where I got my start, and I have known Bob since early 90s where he encouraged me to keep sending articles to MMI. Don’t know how long he’s been ill, but here’s a pic of us 2011 Arnold Classic and I thought he did look very thin:
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b374/willbrink/IMG_0016.jpg
Wish I had known that would be the last time I saw him, but such is life
This is spontaneous and sad. My deepest sympathy to Tosca, her family and Robert’s friends. I only was introduced to Paul via his website I was given a few days ago. I have been an avid rader of Oxygen for many years. To enter Paul’s site this eve and read this news is heart wrenching but timely! Life is short…. share your light with the world!
Hey Paul. I was so touched by your story and photo of Robert with Arnold. Man, am I sad about the news
You mention regularly having lunch with him…I realize now how blessed I was to have that one lunch with the two of you. I could see that mentorship you talk about. And, I’ve never laughed so hard as I did with the two of you that day.
You will keep his dream alive. And, I hope to come back one day to see you
Tamara
Hi Paul Buceta, I appreciate your work as a photographer and also that of Robert Kennedy, I send this message from Peru where also some examples of MuscleMag arrive, I am very sad departure of Robert and I hope he is with God, I didn’t know you botch had a close link, greetings from Peru, his friend BJ, MuscleMag International reader
paz!