Robert Earl "Bob" Etchell Sr.

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.