Robert Franklin Wells, BHS 2012

Robert Franklin Wells, BHS 2012

April 27, 1994 – February 9, 2024

Robert Franklin Wells was born in Glendale, California, and raised in Burbank, California, along with his brother, Tyler, and parents, Tim and Fran Wells.

He attended Burbank schools, graduating from Burbank High School in 2012. He studied at the prestigious dance department at California State University at Long Beach, graduating in 2016 with a B.A. in dance. On the move at an early age, Robert enjoyed sports, dance, tae kwon do, and gymnastics, while learning to do back flips on his backyard mattress.

Robert was baptized and confirmed in faith at Burbank First UMC where his innate exploration of mind, body and spirit was intertwined with choirs, youth group, family camp and service projects.

He was always seeking the next great adventure: camping, snowboarding, hiking, skateboarding, playing beach volleyball, rollerblading, or filming dance. He embraced vacations, to Alaska and Mexico, and visiting family in Dallas or the San Francisco Bay area. He shared his love of the Raiders and Lakers, attending sporting events since before he could walk. An avid animal lover, he rescued two cats and three dogs.

A celebrated, award-winning dancer, Robert signed with Clear Talent Group, working in commercials, music videos, and TV (The Middle, DisneyXD, Just Dance, KidzBop). He performed with Spark Kids dance troupe of the Los Angeles Sparks WNBA team, and Burbank High School’s In Sync show choir where he was the featured performer in the acclaimed set “Prodigal.”

After graduating from CSULB, Robert’s professional career included dancing for, and studying with, many choreographers and artists (Kybele Dance, Versastyle, Pac Modern, Jabbawockeez, among others). Robert passed on his love for dance and gymnastics to the next generation, teaching at various studios across Southern California.

Robert is survived by his parents, Tim and Fran Wells, brother, Tyler Wells, grandfather,
Chester F. LaGrone Sr. and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at Burbank First UMC on April 20, 2024, at 2 p.m. Donations may be made to Burbank First UMC, Robert Wells Dance Fund, to benefit young dancers.

Burbank Leader, February 2024

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We are enormously saddened by the loss of a member of our CSULB Dance community.  Alumnus Robert Wells was an exceptional dancer, performer, and teacher with a deep love for dance.  Always a caring and generous person, Robert contributed greatly to the Department helping to create a positive learning environment for his peers. His contagious spirit brought joy and a vivacious sense of humor to every encounter.

Robert will always be an important part of the CSULB Dance family and will be sorely missed.  We extend our deepest sympathies to Robert’s family and all who knew and loved him.

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NOTE: Los Angeles County Coroner's Report says Robert body was found near railroad Tracks and died of TRAUMATIC INJURIES and it was listed as an accident.