Robert Lee Heaton

Robert Lee Heaton

February 5, 1933 – July 12, 2015

Robert Lee Heaton passed away on July 12, 2015 at the age of 82 in Tacoma, Washington. Born in Bellingham on February 5, 1933, Bob was a Washington man through and through, with degrees from the University of Washington, Central Washington University, Seattle University, and the University of Puget Sound to prove it. He loved Husky football, Mariner baseball, and nearly every Jimi Hendrix song ever recorded.

Bob resided in Washington state his entire life, leaving only to serve his country in the US Navy from 1955-57. A respected educator born to a family of teachers, Bob spent the first half of his professional life teaching at Tahoma High School in Maple Valley, eventually transitioning to a lengthy career as an attorney in the Auburn area. He often joked that his first career assured him a steady supply of clients for his second.

Bob was a kindhearted and generous man, qualities that shone through in his unflagging love for his wife of nearly 50 years, Linda. He loved bad puns and good beer and was a dedicated father to his children, Russ, Sid, and Steph, always full of love and support.

In addition to his wife and children, Bob is survived by his sister, Judith, of Black Diamond, as well as six grandchildren – Marcus, Caleb, Quinn, Gunnar, Kinsey, and Lucy Mae. He was predeceased by his mother, Maude Comfort Heaton, and his father, Robert Lee Heaton, Sr.

We will all miss Bob but take comfort in memories of his clever wit, loving heart, and kind soul.