Robert R. Spillman, 57, died suddenly at his home in Oak Harbor Aug. 28, 2004. He was born May 6, 1947, in Seattle to Gordon F. and Bertha (Roets) Spillman. He was raised in Seattle and Ballard. As a young man, he moved with his father to Japan for four years.

Bob returned to the Seattle and in March of 1966, joined the U.S. Navy. He was sent to Vietnam and then to the Philippines where he met Mercedes Marila. They were married June 22, 1971, in the Philippines.

The Navy returned Bob to the states and to Whidbey Island Naval Air Station. After 11 years of active duty, he decided to leave active duty and pursue a civilian career. He worked for a time for MWR and then was hired as a civil service supply clerk. He was assigned to AIMD at the time of his death.

Bob was an active sportsman. He loved hunting, target shooting, fishing and collecting things. His collection included foreign coins, guns, knives, gemstones, military medals, antiques and sports cards.

Mr. Spillman is survived by his wife Mercedes at the family home, and by one daughter, Karen Tarrant, and three grandchildren, Powell F. Tarrant, Jr., Pi’ikekai P. Tarrant and Keiana M. Tarrant, all of Oak Harbor, his father Gordon F. Spillman of Oak Harbor and his stepmother Ruth Cordes of Snohomish. Two half-sisters, Sherry Elliott of Las Vegas and Shelly Spillman of Oak Harbor also survive. His son-in-law Powell F. Tarrant preceded him in death in April of this year.

A vigil service was held at Burley Funeral Chapel Friday, Sept. 3, with Rev. Larry Bailey officiating. Cremation will follow with private family inurnment. Arrangements are under the direction of Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.