Robert Lee Bielstein (“Pa”) was born Oct. 10, 1923 to Arthur Gabert Bielstein and Lonie Therese Wagner in Victoria, Texas. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Pacific during World War II. Married to Roberta Bernice Brown on Jan. 6, 1945, they raised three children in Corpus Christi, Texas, where he worked for the Navy, then later for the Army in aircraft repair for 33 years.

Upon retiring, they moved to Oak Harbor where he worked for another 20 years at the National Frozen Foods Cannery in Burlington. He also worked various odd jobs, always staying busy helping others, and leaving a legacy of a strong work ethic for his family.

Because his family was paramount in his life, he was sealed to his wife and children in the LDS Ogden, Utah, and Seattle, Wash., temples for time and all eternity.

“Pa” enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time with his family. He loved to watch football and baseball, rarely missing a Seattle Mariners game.

“Pa” passed away on Thursday, May 13, 2010, after battling Pulmonary Fibrosis for several years. He was preceded in death by his parents, seven siblings, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, three children, 18 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandpa and friend, and will be sorely missed. “Tired, lame and lazy” no more. Donations suggested to Whidbey General Hospital Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.