Bob Roper has lived and worked in Ventura County all his life. He grew up in Ventura and attended Buena HS. His wife, Debbie, attended archrival Ventura HS. They have been married 35 years.

Bob began his public service career as a volunteer firefighter. In 1980, he joined the Department full time—rising through the ranks to become Fire Chief in 1997—a position he retained until he retired.

In addition to being a firefighter, Bob earn his BS degree in Business Administration.