ROBERT EUGENE WINTERS

Robert Eugene Winters died at his home at age 89, surrounded by his family on Sunday, July 31.

Bob was born January 7, 1927 to Herman and Grace Winters in Lynden, Washington. When Bob was 17, he joined the Navy to serve his country during World War II.

He was stationed in Hawaii and Japan, where he served as a signalman. After an honorable discharge, he worked as a Seabee. Later in his life he was honored for his military service by being chosen to participate in the honor flight to Washington D.C. to visit the war memorials.

Bob also had a passion for aviation, and when he was 20, he earned his commercial pilots license. He married his high school sweetheart Marydel “Babe” Hansen, and together they raised 4 sons. Bob worked for 38 years for the West Coast Telephone Company, now Verizon, and retired from the Everett office.

Bob also served as a volunteer firefighter for the Marysville Volunteer Fire Department for 27 years and retired as the Assistant Chief. Bob’s community service extended to his participation in the Marysville Citizens’ Against Crime Patrol. His wife Babe preceded him in death August 10, 1990.

He later went on to marry a lifelong friend, Vivian Rancourt. Together, they enjoyed 25 years of traveling and family time. In his retirement, he was a member of the United Methodist Church and became very involved in his church community. He also developed an interest in woodworking and crafted many beautiful and intricate crosses and other gorgeous wooden creations.

He was a member of the American Legion and the Ephrata Senior Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Charles, granddaughter Kara Winters, and stepchildren Susan, Thomas, and Stacy Rancourt.

Bob is survived by four sons: Steve (Nancy), Kelly (Anne), Dan and Joe (Kasi); three stepchildren Dennis (Mary), Judy (Tom), and Sandra; 24 grandchildren; and 38 great-grandchildren. Bob’s family extends a heartfelt thanks to Northwest Hospice.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 6 at the La Conner United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. with reception to follow. A military honor guard interment will be held 11 a.m., Friday, August 12 at Marysville Cemetery, 8801 State Ave.