I didn't know Bob Parkinson but did know Howard Wolfe. Last I heard, Howard was retired and living in Richmond, CA with wife Jodie. One of the Rio Vista boys could chime in here and advise if Howard is still living.
Howard was retired from Pacific Bell as a "Transmission Engineer" for telephone circuits in a central office environment. He was very sharp on electrical stuff.
In 1958, Howard Wolfe bought all kinds of stuff from the KEY SYSTEM that was closing down their Transbay Train operations. I mean LOTS of stuff. KEY 1218 Line Car included. All kinds of electrical gear and carbody parts. His basement in Richmond resembled a Walmart for trolley parts. Unbelievable. Over the ensuing yearsm you would read in the club newsletter that certain parts that were needed for an ongoing car restoration were suddenly obtained from Howard Wolfe. For some of the early years that I was a member of BAERA, Howard claimed to be the only one allowed to operate SN Combine 1005. He also knew how to operate the KEY SYSTEM
Doane automotive crane with chain drive and solid rubber tires.. also known by some as "Nightmare Alice" .. I actually saw him drive that thing. Amazing!
To a lot of the BAERA membership, he was known as "Uncle Howie" !!

Cheers.

KRK