Robert Hatler Williams

1929 - 2024

Robert (Bob) Hatler Williams

July 2, 1929 - February 14, 2024

CLARKSTON - Robert (Bob) Hatler Williams, 94, of Clarkston, Washington, died February 14, 2024, at his home. He was born in the Lewiston Orchards, Idaho, on July 2, 1929. He was the seventh child of Gilbert and Viva Willams. Bob's folks also adopted two girls when he was young. Bob attended elementary, junior and high school in Lewiston, Idaho.

In 1948, Bob and Daphne Chapin were married in Lewiston, Idaho. Bob completed a Bachelor's degree from Washington State University in Industrial Arts in 1951. He went on to earn a Master's degree in education from University of Oregon in 1957 and a Doctorate in Education Administration from Washington State University in 1964.

Bob served in many different leadership positions in school districts in Washington and Oregon during his long career. Locations included Burns, Oregon, Richland, Oregon, Helix, Oregon, Yakima, Washington, Spokane, Washington and Albany, Oregon.

In 1978, he and Daphne moved to Albany, Oregon, to assume the role of Superintendent of the Albany Union High School District. Shortly after accepting the position an election merged elementary and high school districts into the Greater Albany Public School District. He was supported by a wonderful School Board and made many life-long friends during his tenure as superintendent. He retired from this position in 1990.

Upon retirement Bob and Daphne, enjoyed life with their children, grandchildren, family and friends. They traveled to many places and made many memories. Bob enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life. He also created many wood and soapstone carvings, Eskimo and Indian masks, fashioned silver jewelry, and built fine furniture. He wrote one children's book, edited a collection of education statements from the governors of the fifty states and wrote many poems.

In later years, Bob took a heightened interest in the Clarkston Presbyterian church. He particularly enjoyed attending the men's bible study group fondly called the Grumpies. He also participated in the children's program, The Learning Club.

Bob is preceded in death by; Daphne Williams, dear wife of 62 years, his mother and father, four sisters, three brothers, and Adam Clark, grandson.

Bob is survived by; Sister, Enid Lee Heintz (Duane), son David Williams (Maureen) of Roseburg, Oregon, daughter Nancy Clark (Michael) of Hoover, Alabama, son John Williams (Starla) of Spokane, Washington. Grandchildren include Jesse Williams (Carolyn), Aaron Williams (Bebe), Christopher Clark (Haley), Joel Clark, and Ryan Willams. Great grandchildren; Alma and Harriet Williams, Aaron's family, and Addison and Elliott Clark.

A funeral service will be held at 2 pm, Saturday, February 24, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church of Clarkston, 1122 Diagonal Street, Clarkston, Washington, 99403.

In lieu of flowers, Bob requested donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Clarkston, the local Hospice organization, the Salvation Army, the Boy Scouts of America or the Albany, Oregon Public School Foundation.