11/18/1930 – 10/17/2022

Bob passed away peacefully on October 17th

He led a life well lived!

Bob was born and raised in Tacoma, WA. After his graduation from high school, he went to Boston University to earn his BA degree. He returned to Tacoma and first taught at Stewart Elementary School in Puyallup. In 1958 he joined the staff at Puyallup Jr. High School as half time Art Teacher & half time Core Teacher (English & Social Studies). Bob taught ceramics and was himself a talented ceramist.

Bob became an avid gardener at his home in Tacoma and continued his love of gardening when he moved to Friday Harbor with his beloved partner of 53 years, Ed Thorpe. He had a lifetime interest in Art, Architecture & Ceramics, and designed his home and garden in Friday Harbor. He was an excellent cook, a gracious host, and he loved to entertain. Bob also enjoyed baking Birthday cakes for his friends at the Senior Center.

Bob began to explore the horizons and became a world traveler. One of his favorite places was Ladakh, India, but he also traveled to France, he climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro for his 50th Birthday celebration, he took a garden tour to China, traveled to Machu Picchu, Peru, and the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. Bob made lifelong friends from his traveling days.

Bob was a gentle, kind and generous friend. He was beloved by so many, past and present. Bob will reside in all of our hearts, and he will be cherished in many of his friends memories of shared times & adventures. He had a joyous laugh that will continue to be heard and make us all smile.

Bob will also be remembered for the following toast at our gatherings;“May the hinges of friendship never rust, and the wings of love never lose a feather”.

Bob expressed that he did not want to have a service.