ROBERT GRUNWALD

ROBERT (Bob) GRUNWALD Born in Patterson, NJ on December 13, 1931 to parents Carl and Gerdena, Robert Carl Grunwald; passed away on Friday, May 6, 2011 after a short but valiant battle with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Bob moved to Tacoma at a young age and was a 1951 graduate of Stadium High School. Following high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and served during the Korean crisis. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) and Disable American Veterans (DAV). Upon honorable discharge from the USCG, Bob started his apprenticeship and worked nearly 40 years as a construction electrician. He was a proud 54-year member of IBEW Local 76. In retirement, Bob and his wife Deloris (Dee) enjoyed RV traveling, logging thousands of miles, including a memorable trip to Alaska where they successfully navigated the AL-CAN highway. Bob was a dedicated family man and was happiest when surrounded by the love and laughter of his wife, kids, grandkids and great grandkids. Bob is survived by his wife of 58 years Dee, his children Debbie (Ed) Rogel, Mike (Peggy) Grunwald, Barb (Dan) Vaughn, Cheri (Mike) Prichard, his grandchildren Haley (BG) Gee, Kelsey (Cory), Kayla and Alison Rogel, Stephanie and Cory Grunwald, Kalissa (Ryan) Hovey and Eric Vaughn, Matt (Mindee), Robby (Katy) and Danny Prichard, great grandsons Jonathan and Emmett and a new great grand baby due in October. The family wishes to thank Dr. Thomas Baker and his staff, the staff at the St Clair Specialty Center where Bob enjoyed his "lunch with the girls" during blood transfusions and to the Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care staff who allowed Bob to spend his final days at home, surrounded by family. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 12th, 2PM at Mountain View Valley Chapel, 4100 Steilacoom Blvd, Lakewood, WA. The family suggests donations to Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care, 2901 Bridgeport Way W. University Place, WA 98466-4631.