Robert Dyer Matteson, age 77, of Coupeville passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, July 30, 2005.

He was the son of George D. and Electa Matteson and born in Ravenna, Ohio, on April 24, 1928. Bob graduated from Ravenna High School in 1946 and then attended Bowling Green University in Ohio. A gifted athlete, he played basketball and football for Bowling Green and minor league baseball with the Cleveland-affiliated Dayton Indians. He had a 20-year-career with the U.S. Air Force, followed by a career in sales.

Bob is survived by his loving wife Barbara Jean; children Bruce, Suzanne Whalen (Michael); Mark (Debbie); Bert Turnbull (Diane); brother-in-law Brian Robinson (Marianne and daughter Regina); beloved grandsons Adrian Turnbull, Colin and Evan Matteson, and Larod Lover; and special family friend Brandy D’Onofrio.

Special thanks to doctors Vracin and Dannhauer and the staff of the Coupeville Clinic, and for the loving care from everyone at Home Place Alzheimer’s Residence in Oak Harbor. To our wonderful friends and neighbors on and off Whidbey Island who have been so caring, we express our recognition and gratitude.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Sunday, Aug. 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Chief Petty Officers Club at 1080 West Ault Field Road, Oak Harbor. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Whidbey Animals’ Improvement Foundation at 20168 State Rt 20, Coupeville, WA or Home Place of Oak Harbor at 171 SW 6th Avenue, Oak Harbor. All friends and family are invited to attend.