Robert Alan "Bob" Cashell (April 22, 1938 – February 11, 2020) was an American businessman and elected official best known for his role in Nevada civic life. Over several decades he combined private enterprise with public service, serving as the 28th lieutenant governor of Nevada and later as the mayor of Reno. His career bridged business interests, higher-education governance and municipal leadership.

Early life and business background

Cashell was born in Longview, Texas, and later relocated to Nevada, where he established himself as a prominent local entrepreneur. While the details of all his private ventures varied over time, his reputation in Nevada was that of a hands-on businessman who invested in and managed enterprises tied to hospitality, entertainment and local commerce. He maintained ties to the gaming and hospitality sectors and sat on corporate boards in the state later in life, reflecting a long-standing involvement in Nevada’s business community. For the context of his business activities see local profiles and business histories for Nevada and Reno (business overview).

Political career and public roles

Cashell's public career included elected and appointed positions at the state and local levels. He began in public service on the University of Nevada System Board of Regents, where he served from 1979 to 1982, a role that connected him to higher-education governance (University of Nevada). In 1983 he was elected lieutenant governor of Nevada, serving one term until 1987; sources identify him as the 28th person to hold that office. Initially associated with the Democratic Party, he changed affiliation to the Republican Party in 1983 and thereafter ran and served in elected positions as a Republican (Democratic, Republican).

Mayor of Reno (2002–2014)

Cashell served three terms as mayor of Reno from 2002 until 2014. As mayor he emphasized local economic development, efforts to revitalize downtown, and initiatives aimed at broadening the city's economic base beyond gaming and tourism. His administration is commonly credited with supporting public–private partnerships, encouraging redevelopment projects, and promoting Reno as a destination for conventions and new business investment. Those seeking an overview of his municipal leadership may consult summaries of Reno’s civic programs and mayoral archives (Reno, Nevada).

Other roles, board service and later years

In addition to public office, Cashell continued to participate in corporate governance. He served on the board of Station Casinos from 2011 until his death in 2020, reflecting ongoing connections to the regional hospitality and gaming industry. His earlier role on the University of Nevada Board of Regents linked him to higher-education policy in the state. The combination of corporate board service and elected office made him a well-known figure in Nevada’s business and political circles (party affiliation, higher education, business links).

Personal life, death and legacy

Cashell was married to Nancy Parker from 1964 until his death; the couple had four children. He remained a resident of Reno for much of his adult life. Cashell died on February 11, 2020, in Reno after health issues that included heart-related complications. News accounts and official notices at the time reported his passing and summarized his public service and business contributions (birthplace, cause of death).

  • Key offices: University of Nevada Board of Regents (1979–1982), Lieutenant Governor of Nevada (1983–1987), Mayor of Reno (2002–2014).
  • Business and civic impact: Active in Nevada business, served on corporate boards, promoted downtown revitalization and economic diversification in Reno.
  • Political notes: Began public life associated with the Democratic Party, changed affiliation to the Republican Party in 1983.

Bob Cashell's profile is illustrative of a generation of regional leaders who combined private-sector experience with public office to shape urban redevelopment and state-level policy. For more detailed accounts, consult regional histories, municipal records and business filings that document his specific projects and the initiatives undertaken while he held elected office (party history, Reno leadership, state context).