Robert (Bob) H. Walker, an Edmonds resident for 46 years, passed away on Jan. 22, 2012 in the hospital at the age of 72 from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

Born on January 18, 1940 in Ballard, he grew up in the Seattle area and lived in Edmonds most of his adult life. Bob was a PE teacher, football and baseball coach and house painter in the summer. He lived life to the fullest.

Bob was very involved in sports early on, playing and then coaching baseball and football.   Once graduating from Washington State University he received his teaching degree and began a 36 year adventure as a PE teacher in the Seattle School District. In the summer he painted houses and in later years, helped remodel or repair home interiors.

During his education at WSU he met Sharon Lillywhite, who became his best friend, confidante and lifelong companion. They married in June of 1963 and made a wonderful team. Bob was very devoted to his family, which include two daughters, Debi and Teresa.

Bob’s favorite pastimes were spending time with family, traveling around the world together with Sharon by air and RV, going on Volkswalks, woodworking and helping others. Bob had an uncanny knack for making an enormous amount of friends. He was a blessing to those around him. Bob had a sense of humor, often igniting laughter wherever he went. He was generous with his time, serving and volunteering in many different ways. One of his favorite volunteer organizations was SOWERS, in which he and Sharon joined as soon as he retired. They served for 10 years and met many wonderful people.

Bob was an extraordinary man dedicated to family. He will be deeply missed. We celebrate with joy his 72 years on earth. A recent letter from a friend describes the man he was: handsome and strong, loving husband, proud and good father, good friend, athlete, talented jack-of-all trades, builder of homes for those without, effective teacher, strong in health and adversity.

He will be remembered as a man of God who devoted his whole life to serving Him and being a godly example to his family and those around him.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter, Debi Waters and husband Mike; daughter Teresa Storrer and husband Tadd; and four grandchildren, Walker Storrer, Taylor Storrer, Cassidy Waters and Bailey Waters; and brother Jim Walker.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Jan. 28 at Westgate Chapel at 11 a.m.

— Submitted by Debi Waters