ROBERT THORPE

Robert M. Thorpe "Bob" was welcomed home by God on Feb 24. In deep grief we still share the joy of all who knew him and will miss him. He is survived by his beloved bride of 72 years, Ella Mary, his son Paul Thorpe and wife Sue, his daughter Kit Evans, five grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren. Bob was a prominent local businessman. He owned Educators Manufacturing, was an avid sailor of 53 years, a world traveler, and a man of courage and vision. He was an ardent and effective conservationist. As a teen, he sold combs door to door during the Depression to help support his widowed mother and pay his way to Stanford University. Upon graduation, he married his classmate Ella Mary Mossman, and began a long life of service to kin and community. In addition, and unusual for a man of his era, Bob saw his wife as his equal and supported her passions and endeavors, often adding his energy to her dreams. Although Bob and Ella Mary have always been active philanthropists, his most important gift was of his time - as a friend, adviser, planner and leader. He was a catalyst for action and change in his community, church and family. Bob had an unquenchable curiosity and joy, and the infinite patience to allow the world and all of us in it to unfold into our potential. In even casual encounters Bob's humility and gentleness inspired others; he mentored all by the way he lived and in his capacity to love and honor every person. He was deeply spiritual and believed, to the very last, in the world's possibilities. Services will be held Thursday, March 3rd,2011 at United Methodist Church, 7400 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor. Reception begins at 5:00. Service begins at 6:00 with an after reception at 7:00. Bob asks for any gifts to be a form of donation to the Western Washington Girl Scouts.