Bob Sturges succeeded Glenn Otto as Mayor of Troutdale in 1972 and served until 1982. Mayor Sturges was instrumental in developing the City's deep well water system which was wisely built to accommodate future growth. He was a champion of the "double wall" construction building requirement in Troutdale. Bob contended the fierce East Wind required a higher standard here than elsewhere. (In most cases, for seismic reasons, a double-wall construction is now required everywhere west of the Cascades.)
Bob's passion was aviation and he could spin many a yarn about the WWII B17 "Flying Fortress" bomber. Bob served as a technical rep. for Boeing in England during WWII. He was a long time member of the Troutdale Lions Club and helped the Lions with many community service projects. Also, he was active with the Boy Scouts and flying groups. He helped organize the first Troutdale Aero Fair held in 1991.
Bob chaired a committee of the Troutdale Historical Society which gained historical significance for Edgefield Manor, now McMenamins. His group helped persuade the Troutdale City Council to deny Multnomah County a demolition permit to tear down the grand old building. Bob was passionate and articulate in presenting his views on issues which were important to him and the City.