Amazingly, it has been four years now since Bob transitioned. We/I miss him every day.

I thought I would take a moment to share and recall some of the ways - at least for me- that Bob/Dad/Pa's influence still feels very much alive. Bob loved to enjoy laughter and silliness; he consistently found humor in the ordinary course of every day life. He knew how to keep things light. He was clearly NOT a fan of certain politicians and corrupt policies, but he did not let things or people eat away at him. He took things at face value, and was honest and ethical. During these increasingly challenging times, his example feels important to re-visit and recreate on a daily basis. 

On the more serious side, he felt it important to hold truth to power, to speak up about injustice whenever it occurred - whether it was racism, inequality, violence - whatever. Later in life, he also seemed to know when to be silent. When I was a little kid, I thought he might not have been paying attention but I now believe he had a sense of when to let things be, and to respect the natural flow and order of the world. 

I will never forget the way he dealt with the end of his life. I worried that he'd be terrified. Perhaps it was the medication, perhaps it was all the prayers and fish liberation, perhaps it was the fact that his needs were met, perhaps it was the love of his family and friends, but he was quite joyful before he died and while he was dying. He seemed very much at peace.  He was singing until the very last day. 

May we all die in a similar way, and be forever connected. With love, Tara

Bob was absolutely delightful, and so very kind and intelligent.   It was a true blessing when he and Anne moved to Franke Tobey Jones where my parents were living.  Anne and the kids and grand kids are marvelous too. 

My husband and I often had lunch with Bob and my dad on Sundays.  It was so much fun.  We sometimes all laughed so much that we'd get dirty looks from some of the people at other tables!  Can you have too much fun?  I don't think so. 

He was an amazing spirit - what a blessing to this world. 

It is hard to believe that its been 2 years already! How lucky we all were to be connected, to have spent so many wonderful times together and shared so much. 

I remember that day we all danced in the living room on Whidbey to Songs From the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder. What a blast that was! 

Dad, to me your legacy is about ethics, and the importance of striving to “do the right thing” in all aspects of life. You always were so passionate about justice and human rights. I am reflecting on the meaning of that today; what is justice really? What does it mean to respect oneself and others? I feel even more inspired to act with mindfulness, to listen more deeply, and to welcome and consider all points of view. 

Thanks for all you gave to us, all the love and all the laughter. I will always miss you, Dad. You’ll live on forever in my heart.

Shalom. 💗💗💗