June 25, 1931 to June 11, 2015

Born and raised in Niagara Falls, Bob was attending Cortland State University in New York when he was drafted into military service. He served in the Navy for 23 years as a bombardier navigator before retiring and starting Cavern Motors in Oak Harbor, which grew into B&B Automotive with son Bill as a partner.

Bob married his high school sweetheart Maryjane in 1951 and she remained the love of his life until the end. After stops in Virginia, Kansas and Tennessee, Bob was stationed in Oak Harbor in 1958 and came to realize he never wanted to leave. He appreciated the beauty and lifestyle of Whidbey Island and Puget Sound as it became his permanent home.

Himself an only child, Bob had five children with Maryjane: Rhonda Riley (Faustin), Guy (Vicki), Robert, Bill and David. Bob was a supportive grandpa to thirteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A high school and college football and baseball player, Bob coached Little League baseball and remained a follower of the Seahawks and Mariners. Like many fans, he was with them win, lose or tie. He loved fishing and enjoyed tinkering with cars.

He was a Boy Scout leader for his three younger sons.

Like many of his generation with a military background, Bob could show a gruff exterior and blunt mannerisms that masked a generous heart and activities such as serving as the volunteer director of transportation for the Northwest Region of the Disabled American Veterans.

A celebration of life will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, June 21 at Front Street Grill in Coupeville.

Please send remembrances to North Whidbey Little League Association.

Bob will be remembered as an all-around great dad.