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Robert Duin Obituary
Robert Alan Duin, who was born with a passion for the sea and a desire to keep it safe for the rest of us, crossed the restless wave on June 24, 2016. He died at 91 with his wife, Phyllis, by his side at Emerald Heights in Redmond.
A career officer in the U.S. Coast Guard, Bobby grew up in Minnesota, leading New Ulm's American League baseball team to the state championship in 1941. He lettered nine times - in football, basketball and baseball - at the Coast Guard Academy before graduating in 1948.
After gaining a degree in Naval Engineering from M.I.T., Bobby gave his all to the Coast Guard, rising to the rank of Rear Admiral in 1975. He served as the Coast Guard's comptroller for three years, then took command of 17th District operations in Alaska. After retiring from the service in 1980, Bobby spent five years with the Port of Seattle.
He took great joy in sailing, fishing and, for 30 years, the view of Lake Sammamish from his Bellevue porch. He didn't love any of them, however, quite as much as he loved Phyllis, his safe harbor for 66 years. They traveled the world together until the very end.
Bobby was the youngest of Siegfried and Alma Duin's four children. He was inducted into the Coast Guard Athletic Hall of Fame in 1984, and received a number of other honors and medals from the USCG. He didn't wear any of them as proudly as the love of those who survive him, especially his three children, Robert Jr., Steve and Julia; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
His memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday July 10 at St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral in Seattle, where Bobby was long a vital part of the community. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the cathedral.
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Duin
Sponsored by The Family.
Neil Kendall
August 22, 2016
RADM DUIN: An outstanding Coast Guard Officer, a true gentleman, a reliable and friendly mentor and an inspiration to so many who knew him.
Harry & Barbara Wilson
July 19, 2016
As future residents of Emerald Heights, we were invited to dinner in the dining room and were seated with Bobby and Phyllis. We hit it off right away and they invited us to their apartment after dinner. They were such cordial hosts and we enjoyed every moment of our time together. We are both saddened with Bobby's passing and want Phyllis to know how much thought of him. He was a true gentleman and we are grateful we were able to get to know him, albeit for a short time. God bless the Duin family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to each of you.
Reza Tabibi
July 10, 2016
I am honored Admiral Duin chose me as his physician. I had a great time with him over the last 3 years. He was the man of honor and integrity.
Steve Moen
July 9, 2016
Bobby Duin was a true gentleman; and I am grateful for being able to call him my friend. They don't come any finer than this fellow; so, please God, send some more like him!
Richard and Ruth Wight
July 6, 2016
RADM Duin was one of the finest bosses I ever had, an outstanding officer and gentleman, then went on to be a friend of the highest order to Ruth and I for another 36 years.
I know that many others share similar feelings of deep personal loss. Knowing him was a blessing,
Ri chard Wight
July 6, 2016
RADM Duin was one of the finest "bosses" I ever had, then continued to be a friend of the highest order for another 36 years....
Tom McGrath
July 5, 2016
Admiral Duin was one of the finest Coast Guard officers I ever served with. He was the epitome of an Officer and a Gentleman.
Rest in peace Admiral
July 3, 2016
Bobby was a very kind, thoughtful gentleman of the old school and will be missed. He always had a smile for everyone he met.
James Keys
July 3, 2016
Adm. Duin,
I only knew you by reputation through your daughter. She was very fortunate to have you for a father and may you rest in the loving arms of Christ our Savior.. May you dwell in light perpetual.
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