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Oregon State University

Robert Combs Obituary

Robert (Bob) Combs 1/05/1944 to 6/26/2008 Bob loved life to the fullest; loved people, never forgot a name, and loved a challenge. He had an extraordinary compassion for people that made him someone very special. He loved to laugh and with his unique sense of humor so did everyone around him. Bob was born in Baltimore, MD, graduated from Eugene HS, Oregon State University (1966), then earned an MBA from University of Southern California (1968) graduating with honors. He served in the United States Army in the office of Finance and Accounting at the Pentagon. Afterwards he returned to California to work for Informatics, Inc., later moved to Nevada to work as Deputy Controller in the State Controllers Office. His job with Weyerhaeuser, Ernest and Young brought him to the Northwest. Later he formed his own company: Software Brokers Inc., which became Blood Bank Computer Systems, Inc. (1981-1995). Following the sale of his company he worked for Parker Paint as their ClO. In 1987 he married the love of his life Pam (Keller) Bowen and they had 20 wonderful years together. They melded together a family of four boys (two each) and began a new life. He loved and was so proud of all four boys and their families. Throughout his life Bob held memberships in many organizations. Among these were Fircrest Golf Club, Tacoma Rotary 8, Tacoma Power Squadron and Day Island Yacht Club. He served as a board director of Rainier Pacific Bank and as Commodore of Tacoma Yacht Club in 2005. A highlight/honor was being named Grand Marshal of the TYC Daffodil Marine Parade in 2007. He also was a member of University Place Presbyterian Church where in years past he sang in the choir and served as a deacon. His parents Edgar and Norma Combs preceded him in death. He leaves behind his wife Pam, sons Rob Combs (Angela) of Colorado, Rick Combs (Robyn) of Tacoma, Shawn Bowen (Jenn) of Seattle, and Bret Bowen (Denneace) of Gig Harbor. Grandchildren Taven Voas, Aspen Combs, Frankie and Noah Bowen, and Reese and Colvin Bowen also survive him. A Celebration of Bob's life will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, July 6th at Tacoma Yacht Club, 5401 N Waterfront Drive, Tacoma. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Tacoma Sea Scouts or TYC Junior Sailing Program.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Jul. 3, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Combs

20 Entries

Rick Combs

June 25, 2022

I can't believe it's been 14yrs Dad, I'm now in my 50's, getting grey and knees are shot just like you at that age. Aspen is all grown up, and living on her own... We feel you have been sending us a sign to sell the house and, we are getting it ready to do just that. I remember you sitting hear with us 20yrs ago, I was newlywed, new father, new home owner and not a care in the world... I never thought it would be the beginning of a very short time of you seeing the man I finally grew up to be... We had our moments, and we didn't get along at times but there isn't another man that I strive to be like then you Dad... I'm still falling short of your patience but the rest I think is a good match... Thank you for all you did for me, and still do as you inspire me to forge ahead. I only wish you were around to see the savvy investor I turned out to be... I miss you and love you with all my heart. Until I see you again Dad!

Rick

Cherie Taylor

July 9, 2008

It was my privilege to know Bob and his family over these many years and my sympathy and prayers go out to those he has left behind. You gotta know he's up there watching as many football games on as many tv's as he can get his hands on ... while perusing the WSJ and waiting for the call to carve the turkey!

Love you all!

Daniel Taylor
Cherie Panse-Taylor

alice and joe hedberg

July 7, 2008

Our deepest sympathy go out to all of you with the passing of Bob. I will remember him always for his hearty laugh, great big smile and kind word. A good story every now and then too. No Dad was ever prouder of his sons than Bob. Love to you all.

David Larson

July 7, 2008

Rob and family,

I was shocked to hear of your loss. I drove by your old house just last week and told my own kids of the fun memories that I had with you and your Dad. He was always a joy to be around and I know he will be greatly missed.
We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers, David Larson & family

Gretchen (Hedberg) Cooper

July 7, 2008

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Bob was one of the "coolest" Dads while we were growing up. I will have fond memories of him forever. Take care and know that you all are in my thoughts during this difficult time.

Jenifer Schultz

July 7, 2008

Pam and Family -

We are very saddened about Bob's passing. He was a wonderful man and a good friend.

I hope your memories of Bob are etched on your heart and will eventually bring you peace.

We will not forget Bob's wonderful smile and his love of his family and friends -

Steve and Jenifer

Jenifer Schultz

July 7, 2008

Pam and Family -

Steve and I are sorry about your loss. We will always cherish our memories and friendship with Bob - he was a wonderful man and a good friend. He will truly be missed.

I hope that your sorrow will deminish over time and that your memories of Bob bring you peace.

Steve and Jenifer Schultz

Linda Keller

July 7, 2008

In rememberance of Robert, it was an honor knowing him, growing with him and learning from him, I would not have chosen anyone else to call my brother. With all due respect, to let everyone know I have never met a better person in my entire life. He will be remembered throughout my living days. Thank you for sharing Robert with me, I would have like to have known him longer So I await my passing as to be reunited. God Bless

Susan Reynolds Hartman

July 7, 2008

Dear Pam,
My deepest sympathy. I'm so sad to hear this news.

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Ps 73:26

Raleigh Voas

July 5, 2008

Dearest Pam and family, It's sad to think Bob is gone so soon. There was so much life and love in him. We barely got to know him, but knew how much he loved Rob and Rob's Angie and Taven from the very beginning. We are sorry we had not the chance to know him better. After meeting you at the wedding, we were looking forward to the opportunity to becoming closer friends. We love Rob. He is a part of our lives, and we will do our best to care for him and his family. May God comfort you with great memories and great friends. Fondly, Raleigh and Cindy Voas

Chris Clark

July 4, 2008

Bob made such an impact with all who knew him, he took such an interest in our personal lifes. You could tell Bob anything and he would never judge you, always supportive and such a good listener! Until we meet again Mr. Combs, be happy.

John and Chris Clark

Josh and April Voas

July 3, 2008

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May you find comfort in eachother and think back at all your great memories. Please let us know if we can do anything back in Denver for you while you are gone.

Heather (Reitmeier) Carlson

July 3, 2008

Rob & Family,

I am so sad to hear about Bob and have you all in my thoughts & prayers. It was strange to run into Bret today-- after all of these years, especially now; clearly for a reason.
I am thinking of you all and remembering so many good times growing up... and celebrating a life so well lived!
I will cherish the childhood memories I have with your family and know how much he will be missed. Thank you for all of those great times over the years--I hold them close to my heart.

Gloria & Walt Nolley

July 3, 2008

Bob, your pain and suffering is over and now you are in a much better place. I'm sure you will have everybody, "upstairs", laughing, just as you always made us laugh. We will always remember the many great times we shared with you and Pam, during our boating days. You will be in our hearts forever and will be truly missed.

Martin & Wanda Lougee

July 3, 2008

Dear Pam, So sorry to hear about Bob. We have not been in contact with you for awhile, but we remember your Mom and Dad as they were very special friends. We also remember all of you Keller "kids" as being part of a great family. We will be in contact with you when we are in the northwest later this month.
God Bless all of Bob and Your Family
Marty & Wanda Lougee

Jerry Kite

July 3, 2008

Bob, my friend I am so sad you had to leave all of us that loved you. We had so many great times together, times I shall never forget. You could always make me and others laugh but more importantly you could always laugh at yourself. We shared great times boating together, those dingy trips will always be memorable, just talking about nothing, you always had a great story to tell. You always could cook a great steak or burn a hamburger and was always willing to make one for anyone that was interested. You were a great host.
I am truly going to miss you.
Your friend Jerry.

Luella & Byrl Logan

July 3, 2008

What can I say. I saw your Father just once but I will never forget the big smile and the laughter at Rob and Angies wedding. A very special person to have such a close family. So sad he will never be able to hold or rock any little one of Rob's. Our prayers are with you ALL and know somehow God will give you some comfort during a very difficult time. Love - Grandma Logan

Rob Combs

July 3, 2008

Dad,

It's going to take us a long time to truly understand all of this. We can't believe you are gone. It was hard seeing you in the hospital, but Ang and I are thankful we got to say our good-bye's. You have always been my "rock of Gibraltar." I will miss our Sunday talks, your wisdom and advise, your encouragement when things got tough. Your grand-daughter Taven, daughter-in-law Angie and I will miss you more than words can describe. We love you very much!

With Sincere Love,

Taven, Angie and Rob Combs

Aspen with her very PROUD

Rick Combs

July 3, 2008

Dad,

I can't believe you are gone. We have so many things still left to do. Why couldn't you just wake up, Dad, just long enough for me to say goodbye. Your love and guidence were second to none, and you fought a courageous battle to the end. I know you are watching over us, but it's not even close to being with us. You will be forever missed, but never forgotten. Until we meet again . . .

Love always!!!
Rick, Robyn, Aspen, Skylar and Glenn

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