ROBERT PHELAN

Robert "Bob" Edward Phelan Was born on Oct. 22, 1931 in Kansas City, Missouri, and peacefully passed away at home with his family on Dec. 29, 2014 in Auburn, Washington. Throughout his life, Bob was distinguished by his formidable work ethic and his steadfast love for his family and friends. Bob's diligence and dedication to his family became evident during his childhood, when he worked to support his brother, Ray. He ran a farm in Bremerton when he was 14 years old and later worked in a meat market to put himself and his brother through school. He went on to enlist in the Navy Sea Bees Construction Platoon in 1950, and served throughout the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1954. Upon his discharge from the Navy, Bob met the love of his life, Donna May Francis, and they were married on Feb. 28, 1956. They started their family in Montana before moving to Lake Tapps, Washington, where they raised six children: Carolanne Kelly, Shannon, Mathew, Robert, Julie, and Tyler. Bob operated gas stations and a chain of car washes until he became a manager at Scarff Ford of Auburn, where he worked for over 30 years. Bob's energy and kind spirit also enriched the Lake Tapps community during the 51 years that he lived there. He helped organize the first Lake Tapps Fire Station, and was a volunteer fireman and fire chief for many years. He also served on the Dieringer School Board. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Donna May Francis, six children, 11 grandchildren, and five great-grandchild. He was also blessed with close relationships with his brother-in-laws and with his many friends in the Lake Tapps and Holy Family Parish communities. Vigil service January 2 at 7pm and Funeral Service Sat., January 3 at 11am both at Holy Family Catholic Church in Auburn, WA.