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He lived, loved, laughed, and taught us how to do all three by example. Though his life spanned 82 years, from June 17, 1928 - September 15, 2010, his thirst for knowledge led him through more than one lifetime of adventures. Bob met the love of his life, Frances, his "Doll", in Eureka in 1956 and she said "I do" only after he asked her seven times. They raised four curious and rambunctious boys together. Bob was many things to many people: leader, father, husband, Christian, plumber, nature-lover, diver, builder, gardener, fisherman extraordinaire, philanthropist, and hard worker. Those who knew Bob well also describe him as a storyteller, wise owl, giving tree, teacher, comedian, encyclopedia, explorer, and a lion among men. He traveled the Pacific building schools, churches and medical clinics while including his family on the expeditions. Among the places he visited and left his indelible mark were: Saipan, Palau, Pohnpei, Majuro, and Guam. He had the magical ability to slow down and live life at the speed of nature. Bob was the kind of husband who told everyone he met, "If you happen to see the most beautiful girl in the world, tell her I love her," which always made his Doll smile; the kind of father who provided opportunities for his sons; the kind of grandfather who would let his grandchildren play with the precious artifacts that he kept in his "museum"; the kind of brother who shared equally the benefits, while shouldering the responsibilities with Dick and Russ. His legacy lives on through his wife, Frances; his sons, Robert Jr., Jamen, Gregory and Matthew; his grandchildren, Julie, Robert III, Jamen, Frances, Matthew, Lorraine, Johnathon and Ridge; and his great-grandchildren, Trinity, Rachel and Kira. His family and friends are invited to a celebration of his life in his rose garden at home on Sunday, September 26, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
"Uncle Bob" is how we always called Mr. Etchell and he excepted this title with a welcomming smile. My mom (Juana), sisters (Amelia,and Patricia), brothers (Chico and Coco)extend our deepest sympathy to you your family. Uncle Bob touched our lives in so many ways. We can only pray that we shall meet again on the day of the Holy Reserection.
-Auria Correa Vasquez
September 28, 2010
I have many fond memories of Bob. I remember the first time I met him in 1956. He always had a smile on his face and a quick wit about him. Never forget the wonderful times Bob, Frances, Lowell and I had in Humboldt County. My condolences to my cousin Frances and Bob's large, wonderful family. Dixie Klemp
Dixie Klemp
September 22, 2010
Sorry to hear of Bob's passing.. I only met him once 52 years ago, my condolences to the family, I can tell he will be soley missed.
Diane Powell (nee Palmer)
September 22, 2010
Some of my fondest childhood memories include going out with Uncle Bob and my Grandpa Richard. The only thing more amazing than the charisma those two brothers had, was the iron stomachs that kept the contents of lunch down during one of their Deep Sea fishing trips. Rest in Peace Uncle Bob!
Stephen Etchell
September 21, 2010
Our Condolences to the whole family. He will be FOREVER missed by everyone! He always had a smile on his face and made everyone laugh. You are in our thoughts. Love, Michelle and family
Michelle Wilson (Jellison)
September 20, 2010
MY CONDOLENCES TO YOU, FRANCES, AND YOUR FAMILY. MY NAME IS ED GRIMES AND WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL WITH BOB AND EVEN PICKED GRAPES AT HIS FAMILY FARM ON OLIVET ROAD. I REMEMBER WHEN THE BOYS BOUGHT A MOTORCYCLE AND RODE IT ALL OVER. WE EVEN RODE IT OVER TO THE RIVER AREA DURING THE SUMMER WHEN ALL THE RESORTS WERE IN BUSINESS. I ALSO REMEMBER A COUPLE OF THE OLD CARS THAT THE BOYS HAD. THEY WOULD BE WORTH A LOT TO COLLECTORS NOW. ONE WAS AN OLD CADILLAC, 3 SEATER. BIG TIRES, BIG ENGINE, BIG DRIVERS SEAT. I HAVE FORGOTTEN WHOS CAR IT WAS, BUT IT WAS AL LOCAL FULTON FAMILY, I BELIEVE. SEE YOU LATER, ROBERT.
ED GRIMES 1605 SAN RAMON WAY, 95409 539-2663
ED GRIMES
September 18, 2010
Grampa taught me so many things. In passing, he taught me the precious nature of life. Thank you, Grampa.
Love,
Your grand-daughter, Frances
September 18, 2010
I will never forget the last time I saw him, I had my 1 year old daughter with me and he motioned for me to come over to him, when I sat down here looked at my daughter Ava and said "its like I'm looking at a baby Kara all over again! She is beautiful" So sweet. I have known him my whole life and am sad to say goodbye.
Kara Ritz-Urbano
September 18, 2010
I'm going to miss you Uncle Bob!
Much love,
Sandy
Sandy Etchell
September 18, 2010
We were trailer mates during a brief but very special time in Eureka long ago when Bob met Frances and I met Geri. I always had the highest regard for Bob. We know he is making heaven a brighter place. It was an honor to know him.
Dean and Geri Durbin
September 18, 2010
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