Robert "Bob" Eko

Robert Eugene Eko passed away at the age of 97, Dec. 30, 2025. He was born Sept. 6, 1928, to Oscar and Hilma Eko, Robert grew up in Rochester with his siblings, Lorraine, Lucille, and Johnny.

During the summers he spent considerable time on his grandparents' farm in Lincoln Creek Valley. Robert graduated from Rochester High School and served in the U.S. Army for a short time.

In 1959, Robert married the love of his life, Peggy Lynette. Together, they made their home on 20 acres atop Davis Hill in Centralia, where they built a house, barn, and gardens, and raised quarter horses. Robert was a proud member of the Sheriff's Posse and spent many years working in the logging industry as a high climber, scaling trees of remarkable height. Later, he transitioned to a second career at the Centralia Coal Mine.

Robert was known for his independence, and love of hard work. He enjoyed good health throughout his life - still high climbing trees at age 86, weed-eating sidehills at age 95, and living independently with the loyal companionship of his dog, Tucker.

Bob was preceded in death by wife, Peggy. He is survived by his brother, Johnny (Kathy); his children, Kimberly (Mike), Kristy (Chris), and Brian (Leanne); and his grandchildren, Jake and Emma.