Robert Randall Zahler

Robert Randall Zahler

Bob embarked on his final passage on March 1, 2011 at the age of 87. Born to Joseph and Peggy Zahler on September 20, 1923 and raised in Mukilteo, WA. After attending Rosehill School and Everett High School, Bob entered Washington State University and joined Sigma Chi at 15 years of age. As a Naval Reservist in college, Bob was pulled into active service during WWII as a marine engineer. After the war Bob joined the Military Sealift Command where he spent a number of years as Chief Engineer of the USNS Albert J. Myer, a cable-laying vessel he grew to love. Bob retired from the MSC after 30 years of service but continued to work various maritime jobs into the 1980s.
Bob kept extremely active after retirement. He was active in the VFW and American Legion and served for years as Post Commander of Monroe's American Legion Post 58. Bob also became a master beekeeper, and was the president of the Washington State Beekeepers Association for over eight years, lecturing internationally on beekeeping practices.
Bob was also passionate about old machinery and was often found working on one of his old trucks or farm tractors. He was a member of the Sky Valley Tractor Club as well as the American Truck Historical Society. Bob enjoyed collecting and restoring old trucks.
A variety of health issues slowed Bob down over the last ten years but never stopped his interests or his passion of life.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Lois; his children, Tony, Robin and Diana; son-in-law, Tom; sister-in-law, Doris Houser; grandchildren, Emily, Frank and Nicole; and longtime family friend, Al Lee.
A celebration of his life will be held from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., Friday, March 11 at the Edmonds Plaza Room above the Edmonds Library at 650 Main Street in Edmonds.