On January 19, 2025, a solemn ceremony took place at Brusie Funeral Home in Chico, California, as veterans and family members honored the late Bob Mulholland. The event marked the transfer of his casket to the Sacramento International Airport, initiating a final journey to Arlington National Cemetery, where he will be interred with full military honors on January 24, 2025.
As the ceremony unfolded, Jane Dolan, Mulholland’s wife, received a plaque recognizing his service as a United States Army Vietnam veteran. Bob Prosser, President of the Shasta Veterans Escort, expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, “May your pain be tempered by the knowledge that Robert ‘Bob’ John Mulholland is a true American hero.” Dolan nodded in agreement, reflecting the shared admiration for her late husband.
A group of over 20 members from the Patriot Guard Riders gathered to escort Mulholland’s casket, while the Chico Fire Department displayed a large flag from an engine ladder nearby. The Chico Veterans Honor Guard served as pallbearers, lifting Mulholland’s casket into a hearse. Their presence underscored the community’s respect for a man known for his dedication to veterans’ causes.
Mulholland passed away on October 19, 2025, at the age of 78. His contributions to both the military and local politics were acknowledged by many attendees. Despite differing political views, veterans expressed their respect for Mulholland, who was not only a proud veteran and Purple Heart recipient but also a superdelegate for the California Democratic National Committee.
At the ceremony, David J. “DJ” Lemire, Commander of American Legion Post 259, shared personal memories, emphasizing Mulholland’s approachable nature. “He was easy to talk to,” Lemire remarked, highlighting Mulholland’s commitment to advocating for fellow veterans. “If anyone had an issue that needed addressing, he would take it straight to city council.”
Another attendee, Carlos Castle, AMVETS second vice commander of the Department of California, praised Mulholland for his active involvement in various veterans’ organizations. He noted Mulholland’s ability to engage in constructive discourse, stating, “He enjoyed a tough conversation… It just means we heard each other and walked away as friends.”
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office Chaplain, Josh Cook, also reflected on their long-standing friendship, acknowledging that they often found themselves on opposite sides of political issues. Cook shared a humorous anecdote about Mulholland’s teasing regarding military service, stating, “I joined the National Guard just to stick it to him.” Their light-hearted banter encapsulated the spirit of camaraderie that defined Mulholland’s relationships.
As the procession began, Chico Police Department Sergeant Todd Lefkowitz led the riders through the city, further emphasizing the community’s respect for Mulholland. Many veterans present acknowledged that while they may not have always agreed with him, they held him in high esteem for his unwavering advocacy.
In a fitting tribute, Cook expressed his intention to continue honoring Mulholland’s legacy. He plans to attend a local memorial ceremony set for February at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, stating, “I’m going to fulfill my promise to Bob. I’m going to be the Republican who haunts him all the way out the door.”
The ceremony at Brusie Funeral Home served as a powerful reminder of the impact Bob Mulholland had on his community and the many lives he touched throughout his lifetime. His commitment to veterans and ability to foster dialogue across political divides will be remembered by all who knew him.
