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Robert COOMES Obituary
March 31, 1928-September 9, 2012
Robert "Bob" A. Coomes was born in on a farm in Owensboro, Kentucky in 1928. He attended St. Bernard's College in Alabama before joining the Air Force during the Korean War. While stationed at Fairchild AFB as a B-29 crew chief he met his future wife, Jean Willys, at a USO dance. He thought Spokane was a great place to raise a family and he and Jean were married and had nine children. After graduating from Gonzaga University he taught math and science at St Augustine and Cataldo Middle School. He was also a real estate agent and retired from the Washington Air National Guard. He loved all things about Gonzaga University, as a sports season ticket holder and supporting the athletic programs. Bob was preceded in death by Jean, his wife of 45 years. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Beryl Coomes, sons Mike, Mark, David, Tom, Kevin and Tim and daughters Carol, Patty and Robbie. He is also survived by 21 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two sisters and a brother. Viewing will be from 12-7pm with a Vigil at 7pm on Thursday, September 13th at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Friday, September 14th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 219 E. Rockwood Blvd with Interment to take place at Holy Cross Cemetery. Donations can be made to Hospice of Spokane in lieu of flowers. Please visit Bob's tribute and leave a condolence at www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to:
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert COOMES
Terri Hayman (Graham)
October 4, 2012
The memories of Mr. Coomes go all the way back to kindergarden in the Coomes' basement! From there it was on to St. Augustine's and Cataldo, where I can still picture him up there teaching, and bouncing on his toes behind the podium. He was a great leader and teacher with a deep laugh and twinkling eyes (except when you were in trouble...). Hundreds were blessed to have this wonderful man teach us and shape our futures. He raised an amazing family and they are in my thoughts and prayers.
Pat Timothy
September 17, 2012
I just heard about Bob's passing this morning, and I'm sad that I was unable to pay tribute to him and Jean at his service. I feel myself a long time friend, having watched his family grow and follow the example their parents set. I send my heartfelt love to each of you. I know you dad is in a much better place, and has been reunited with yor mom.
Anne Marie Aiken
September 15, 2012
Thank you, Mr.Coomes, you were a wonderful example of Catholic manhood and Catholic fatherhood to all your students. It was a great privilege to have had you as a teacher. You raised such a nice family--we Grants so loved growing up just around the corner from all of them. Our Lord must have said to you, "Well done, good and faithful servant, now enter into the joy of your Master!"
Kimberly Dunham
September 14, 2012
Mr. Coomes. What a class act. Forever memorable, forever appreciated, and now, eternally celebrated. What a lucky girl was I to have had a seat in your class. What I learned about science was often utilized. What I learned about life...forever grateful. Class of 1974
Korean War
September 14, 2012
The Washington State Veterans Cemetery extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Robert A. Coomes for your loss, to honor his service to our country and our patriotic hero.
An appreciative American
September 13, 2012
You served in the dangers of war and lived in peace. As you are reunited with your former crew we will continue to honor your service.
Beamar Huetter
September 12, 2012
I remmber your father as a wonderful home room teacher who always dressed in a suit and tie which was a welcome change from the nun's robes!I don't remember any other lay teacher... so, he made quite an impression! you were lucky to have such a father. Beamar Huetter class of 1963
Jack Sheehan
September 12, 2012
Bob was our homeroom teacher in the seventh and eighth grade at St. Augustine's grade school, now Cataldo. He was a good man and a dedicated teacher. He made great sacrifices to pursue that calling with a big family and a very humble wage. My condolences to his family.
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