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In memory of

Robert P Morse

Federal Way, WA, USA

January 10, 1925 - February 20, 2019

Jan 10, 1925 - Feb 20, 2019

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Bob Morse was born in Auburn, Washington on January 10, 1925. His father left Bob when he was only 2 years old. As the depression settled in, he and his older brother Ben were raised by his mother Grace and accompanied her to many odd jobs that she did to support the family. As Ben and Bob grew older, they found ways to support the family with odd jobs as well throughout childhood.

After graduating from Auburn HS, Bob joined the US Navy in 1943 during WWII. He attended boot camp in Farragut, Idaho, and was then sent to Aviation School in Norman, OK where he became an aviation mechanic and played in the Navy Band. One night while on leave in Oklahoma City, he met Mary Ann Smith who was still in high school and being raised by an aunt and strict uncle. Bob persevered and on June 19th, 1944 they were married. Despite people saying it would never last, they nearly celebrated 75 years of marriage.

They began their married life in a small trailer at the Naval Air Station at Patuxent, Md. Where he was stationed through the duration of the war. After the war he brought his wife to Auburn, WA. In those early years he worked a large rural paper route. He began work at the US Post Office in Auburn where he eventually retired as Manager of Customer Service after 33 years of service.

They entered into family life in 1947 when Robert Jr was born. His second son Richard was born in 1953. In 1956 they moved to Federal Way and joined Steel Lake Presbyterian Church where he was active throughout his life. The family shared in many adventures camping, fishing, boating, and water skiing. Both sons were active in Scouting and Bob supported their troop in many different volunteer roles.

In 1978, Bob suffered a debilitating stroke. He was determined however to get the most out of life, and after an early retirement took Ann on many trips with their travel trailer. Throughout their life, they visited all 50 states, and traveled abroad to Israel and throughout Europe. They took numerous cruises and made many friends along the way. During this period they also were active in the growth of their 5 grandchildren with many sleep-overs, trips and attending nearly every special school program.

By the 1990’s they decided it was time to downsize, sell the trailer, and moved to a condo in Federal Way. They still enjoyed travel and their friendships at the church going to retreats, and concerts. In 2017 his brother Ben preceded him in death. Late in 2017, Ann could no longer care for Bob, and with great pain he was placed in Garden Terrace in Federal Way, where he received outstanding care for his remaining time.
. He was a Past Commander of the American Legion, a 73 year member of the Masonic Lodge, and was appointed by the mayor as Civil Defense director for Auburn.

He is survived by his wife of 74 years, Ann Morse, sons Robert Jr. (Mari) and Richard (Cecilia), 5 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He also had a half-sister, Peggy Walker in Pa. We believe that he loved life so much, that it was hard for him to let it go, even after 94 years. He will be remembered for his good nature, smile and love of life. He died Feb. 20th at Garden Terrace in Federal Way. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Steel Lake Presbyterian Church (2415 S. 320th St, Federal Way WA 98003), whose mission is to serve the elderly in Federal Way.

A Memorial Service will be held March 9th at 2:00 pm at Calvary Lutheran Church, 2415 S 320th St, Federal Way, WA 98003. Rev. Dr. Will Mason officiating.

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In lieu of flowers, consider a gift to Steel Lake Presbyterian Church.

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In 1958 I was a beginning teacher at Algona Elementary School, I boarded with Aunt Johnny next door to Bob and Ann. The…

In 1958 I was a beginning teacher at Algona Elementary School, I boarded with Aunt Johnny next door…

In 1958 I was a beginning teacher at Algona Elementary School, I…

My dad, Ben was Bobs older brother
Myself, Ann,Bob and Ben got together quite often in the last couple years The two of…

My dad, Ben was Bobs older brother
Myself, Ann,Bob and Ben got together quite often in the last coup…

My dad, Ben was Bobs older brother
Myself, Ann,Bob and Ben got to…

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