Bob Torset passed peacefully Sept. 8, 2007, at the age of 80. Bob was born in Chicago and was a World War II Navy veteran. After graduating from Southeast Missouri University, he excelled in his career of industrial sales and made his home in Los Angeles and later in Portland, Ore., before retiring to Oak Harbor in 1985.

A strong sense of community service and involvement began in his college years and Bob continued leadership roles throughout his life. In his younger days, Bob was an avid outdoorsman and his love of boating brought him to Whidbey Island. In retirement he continued to be active in community organizations, enjoyed travel, and appeared as an extra in several Hollywood films.

Although challenged by Parkinson’s, Bob never let the disease lessen his zest for life; he collected and retained a lifetime of friends. His family includes Behle, his wife of 58 years, and two sons: Star of Kirkland and Clay of Corvallis, Ore.