Hootin an Hollarin stage now called ‘Main’ stage in honor of Dr. Bob Main

During this year’s festival, the Hootin an Hollarin committee will dedicate the festival stage to the late Dr. Bob Main in honor of the nearly 40 years of service, assembling the festival stage and helping to lay the square dance platforms each year.From now on, the stage will now be known as the “Main” stage in his honor. 

A dedication ceremony will be held on the Main stage while judges are tallying the votes of the Hootin an Hollarin queen pageant, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19.

Bob moved to Gainesville in 1985 with wife Robin Deck. The couple opened the Gainesville Veterinarian Clinic that year and operated the clinic until their retirement in 2020. In addition to his veterinary practice, Bob was active in the community, especially as an officer and member of the Gainesville Lions Club. He especially loved helping in the Lions food truck. 

He was a lifelong member of American Veterinary Medical Association and a member of the Extension Board. He was also a regular blood donor, donating many gallons of blood over the years.

He died Aug. 15 after a short illness. A celebration of life service will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at The Center in Gainesville.