ROBERT CHARLES "BOOB" DARES

1929 - 2011

Robert Charles Dares, "Boob", 81, of Anacortes, passed away on April 19, 2011. He was born on October 25, 1929, to parents Charles and Harriett Dares on a farm in rural Hill City, Minnesota, that provided him with wonderful memories of family life there.

Robert developed a particular affection for the horses and mules that were their working companions and a great love for nature and the outdoors.

He served honorably in the United States Air Force as an airman during the Korean conflict which gave him many opportunities for dedicated service.

Robert married Patricia Sledge and they raised three daughters: Bobbie, Bonnie and Bev. He taught his daughters a work ethic, integrity and appreciation for life. Robert told them, in his own words: "Work hard and play it straight and life will be good." He also modeled a great sense of humor in dealing with whatever life brings you.

After being raised in Minnesota, all three daughters chose to follow their parents to Washington State and made it their home.

Robert's career as an operational engineer was extraordinary. He laid pipe all across Alaska and America and Canada, in historic situations, and was the most sought after consultant in his profession. Robert remains widely known for his tremendous abilities as a mechanical and artistic craftsman.

Pat Dares passed away after a prolonged illness and Robert met and married JoAnn Funk. He and JoAnn enjoyed more than two decades of loving partnership which included business and pleasure.

Though Robert and Pat retired in Anacortes, he could never be far from his beloved Alaska for long, so he and JoAnn built a vacation home in Hyder, which gave them years of great joy.

In the weeks following an accident, family and friends grew closer as each expressed their devotion to Robert. Robert knew how much he loved others but, the only consolation in his death is that he came to know how much he was loved by others on an entirely new level. In the words of his granddaughter Angie: "His heart was full of love. You could feel it even without words."

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Harriett Dares, his brothers George and Donald Dares, first wife Pat Dares and daughter Roberta Dares.

He is survived by his present wife JoAnn Dares; daughters Bonnie and Bev Dares and their families; grandchildren, Terri, Angie, Kelly, Lindsay, Jacques, Erica and Evan; great-grandchildren, McKayle, Spencer, Tyson (Tater), Phoenix, Adrianna, Teara, Wendall III, Tyler, Jordan, Monique, Dominik, Memphis, Shaylynne, Mercedes and Jacques. All the children have been a great source of joy to him. He is also survived by sisters Elizabeth Mathis and Mary Dares, and brother James Dares. Robert will live forever in those who loved him for his incredible humor, tall tales and love of life.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Hyder Community Center C/O General Delivery Hyder, Alaska 99923 (250-636-2393).

Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., Anacortes, WA and the San Juan Islands.

To share memories of Robert, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com.