Robert Rolland Fox

Obituary Robert R. Fox On the morning of May 18, 2015, Bob passed away peacefully of natural causes. Bob and his loving wife of 61 years, Kathryn raised 7 children, over 40 years in Spanaway. They had recently moved to the Springs Living Center in Missoula, Montana where they resided at the time of his passing. Bob was 82 years old. Robert R. Fox was born in the town of Atkinson in Holt County, Nebraska on September 23, 1932. He was the 9th child of Elizabeth and Charles Fox. Bob grew up and worked in the family hayfields of Emmet, Nebraska (known as "the biggest little haytown in the world!") along with his 13 brothers and sisters. He graduated from O'Neill High School in 1951 and left to serve his country in the USAF shortly thereafter. Bob met Kathy at a dance in the O'Neill Legion Club where they fell in love and married on January 6, 1954. Bob served his country for 22 years in the USAF, becoming a flight engineer, and flying his "missions" as only he could call them! He saw the world and was a part of two war campaigns for the USA. He retired as a Master Sergeant and went into a second career of public service for the Bethel School District Transportation Division and later for Pierce Transit. Bob was a decorated safe driver and was well liked by passengers and his co-workers for his friendly demeanor. A heart condition ended his career of military and public service spanning 40 years. After retirement, Bob enjoyed the opportunities to travel with Kathy, in his prized new motor home, visiting family and friends across the country. Bob was a deeply religious, hard working, family centered man with an infectious smile and a laugh that made others immediately feel better. Growing up in a family of 14, he learned the value of how family and hard work accomplished together, strengthened the family bond. Bob always made time for his own family, particularly when they had needs. He was a man who taught valuable lessons, which were at times very difficult to accept, but their deeper meaning would present itself when you least expected it and needed it most. Bob left us all with so many memories, many of which are told in the humorous stories about the idiosyncrasies that made Bob the memorable person that he was! Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Elizabeth; brothers, Leonard, Wayne, Gilbert and Charles; sisters, Esther, Marie and Carol. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; sons, Tim (Ellen), Terry, Bill (Susan), Kelly (Donna), Dave (Trena), Jason; and daughter, Kristy Fell (Jeff). Bob is also survived by sisters, Opal and Ruby; and brothers Larry, Lyle, Gordon and Raymond. "Grandad" was so good with and was adored by his 16 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 29, 2015 at 11:00am at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. A Rosary will be recited on Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 7:00pm at Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the McChord Air Museum Foundation (www.mcchordairmuseum.org). Interment at Gethsemane Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.