Bob Carpenter's Obituary
Robert "Bob" Carpenter passed to his heavenly home on February 24, 2018. Born in Ogdensburg, NY, on April 25, 1938, he was raised in Watertown, NY, with lots of family and friends to share in the memories made. He graduated from Immaculate Heart Academy in 1956. After graduation he moved to Washington, DC, where he worked for the FBI as a file clerk. There he met the love of his life, Gerri, and they married on April 12, 1958. They welcomed 4 children, moving across the country to raise them in Tacoma, WA. Bob was a Retail Clerk, working for Safeway and then Costco. He coached and mentored many children at South End Boys & Girls Club, giving time and efforts to the SEBC Parents’ Club, PTA at Madison Elementary, and established sports opportunities at Madison and SEB&GC. He attended his kids’ & grandkids’ activities, and always supported fundraisers of his family & friends. He took care of his family and neighbors whether it was a ride to the doctor, beauty salon or buying their groceries. "Just let me get my coat" was a common phrase at our house. He enjoyed Tacoma High School sports, NCAA Basketball and Notre Dame as well as music of all kinds, books, movies, and reruns of old shows. He was a man of quiet yet strong faith, and we know heaven gained an angel when he entered.
Bob is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Gerri; daughter Kelley Church (Mark); sons Kevin (Dianna), Keith (Jenni), Kraig (Dana); grandchildren Erin (Fiancé Caleb), Benjamin (Kaela) & Sean; Kory (Amanda), Kody & Klayton; Bo, Kenzie & Brock; Davis & Kennedy; sister Bonnie Sharlow of Watertown, NY, and brother-in-law Larry Johnson of North Bend, WA; and many nieces, nephews and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Bill and sisters Beverly Cerow and Barbara Carr.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 10, 11:00, at Zion Lutheran Church, 3410 6th Ave, Tacoma, and a reception (light refreshments) at the church. An Irish wake will follow the reception at The Swiss Restaurant & Pub, Tacoma, from 2-5 to raise a glass and remember the friendly man who touched so many lives. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Boys & Girls Club Schatz Branch and to PB&J for the Homeless. See the family for details. Salute!
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