Robert J. McGarvey Elementary School

Robert (Bob) J. McGarvey has lived in Rancho Cordova since 1967. He has been a steadfast leader in many community, church, and school organizations and activities. He was named Rancho Cordova Man of the Year by the Grapevine Independent Newspaper in 1987. He has been an active member of the Mather Restoration Advisory Board since 1994 and the Cordova Community Council since 1975. He was one of the community members who formed the City of Rancho Cordova and served on the City Council as Mayor.

During his first tenure as Mayor, McGarvey formed a Sister City Citizens Committee that resulted in Turrialba, Costa Rica becoming a Sister City With Rancho Cordova. He started the Rancho Cordova Veterans Day and Memorial Day celebrations at the Veteran Memorial Plaza VA Hospital. He also created the first Rancho Cordova Post Cards.

Robert J. McGarvey retired from PacBell after 33 years working in the central offices and network operation center. Even in his retirement he serves his community as a substitute teacher. He served in the Air Force from 1961 to 1967 - the last 2 1/2 years of active duty was serving at Mather AFB, and the last two years were in the reserves. He received an AA degree from Sacramento City College and a BA in Government from California State University, Sacramento. His hobbies include fishing, hunting, camping, reading, and playing the piano.

Robert J. McGarvey and his wife, Terri, have four children and eight grandchildren. Terri McGarvey is a retired elementary teacher who taught for 20 years in Elk Grove Unified School District.

Robert J. McGarvey is a true champion of the City of Rancho Cordova and embodies the significance and importance of civic involvement and responsibility. Robert J. McGarvey’s passion and commitment to his local community will always be celebrated in the Robert J. McGarvey Elementary School.