Robert Houston GOINS

Robert Houston Goins, 72, passed away peacefully at home in Spokane, WA, on December 13, 2022, with his wife and family by his side, due to ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). He was born July 8, 1950, to Jack and Cora Goins in Pasco, WA.

Bob was a 1968 graduate of Ferris High School and received his bachelor's degree from Eastern Washington University in 1972. Before his retirement, he worked primarily in fluid power hydraulics until opening his own handyman business to help the elderly stay in their homes. Bob always insisted they call him, even if it was to change a light bulb, to protect their safety, and he had a loyal client base that gave him great joy.

Words are inadequate to describe how deeply Bob will be missed by all who knew him-his smile, his sense of humor, his deep resonating voice, his memory (always precise and frighteningly accurate), as well as his hugs and his love. He married Maureen in 1993 in Coeur d'Alene, ID, and they renewed their vows in 2016 at St. Aloysius Church in Spokane. Their 30th anniversary is January 2, 2023.

An intelligent, supportive, and kind man, Bob was strong both physically and mentally. He had a large circle of amazing lifelong friends, and his hobbies included cars, motorcycles, planes, trains, and old movies, plus he loved history, especially Spokane. He was an avid reader, and loved the comics and listening to old radio shows with his beloved dog, Gus, by his side. Bob had a vast knowledge of all things mechanical and a talent for fixing just about anything. His nephew Alex called him "a walking encyclopedia," which was spot on. He especially enjoyed time spent at home, on the Oregon coast, and exploring old ghost towns in Montana.

Bob is survived by his wife, Maureen; sisters Elizabeth (Liz) Goins-Willard and Christi (Scott) Hale; brother Tom (Robin) Goins; sisters-in-law Mary Sandall, Sally Gehrts, and Patty (Dave) Erwin, and 12 nieces and nephews, whom he loved very much. In addition, he is survived by Goddaughter Megan Sandall; stepmothers Joyce Goins and Lois Cole; aunt Irene Goins; numerous cousins and special people in his life, including Nicki Boures, Janice Sweeney, and Dayna Bly.

Special thanks to our incredible neighbors and friends for their many kindnesses along the way. A grateful heart is also extended to Bob's sister Christi and Hospice of Spokane for providing in-home care for the past 5-8 months, respectively. Bob was preceded in death by his parents in 2001.

A Celebration of Life and reception will be held on January 6, 2023, at 11 a.m. at St. Thomas More Parish in Spokane. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Spokane, the ALS Association, or a local dog shelter. His online memorial may be found at www.holycrossofspokane.org.