Robert Hugh Coalson's Obituary
On Friday, September 19th, 2014, Robert “Sandman” Coalson laid down his burden to rest. Bob fought his battle with cancer with bravery and strength, making it look deceptively easy. Bob was born on May 25th, 1946 to Forster and Pernie Coalson, who preceded him in death, along with his brother, Junior Coalson and his sister, Rachel Hicks. He was born and raised in Mount Airy, North Carolina and joined the U.S. Army in 1964. He served honorably with his comrades-in-arms for twenty-one years. His career included a tour in the Republic of Vietnam in which he earned two Purple Hearts with 2nd Platoon, Co. B., First Battalion, Fifth Cavalry, First Cav Division. He also earned the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and received the Meritorious Service Medal upon his retirement. Bob married his beloved wife, Teresita, and for over forty-three years they travelled the world and together raised their three children. Bob retired from the army in 1985 and went on to receive degrees from Chaminade University and the University of Hawaii. He deeply respected veterans and used his talents to serve them as a clinical social worker in the Veterans Administration. He also shared his knowledge with others through his teaching positions at Saint Martin’s College and the University of Washington. Bob was an avid story teller and was fascinated by dreams, his own and others. He genuinely appreciated the beauty in everyday moments; a hummingbird outside his window, a funny memory of his childhood coming to mind, rubbing his beard on a grandchild’s cheek to elicit a giggle, and outings to Starbucks or McDonalds for his daily dose of conversation and people watching. When Bob asked you a question, he was genuinely interested in your answer. He took his greatest pleasure in his nine grandchildren. They loved their Papa! Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife Tere, his son John Coalson (Hollie), daughters, Vicky Coalson and Angela Gomez (Jehnsen), his sister, Judy Coalson Middleton and his dear grandchildren; Kayla, Jayden, Olivia, Gavyn, Lyllianna, Isabella, Ava, Jameson and Sebastian. Bob touched the lives of so many and will be dearly missed. His beautiful legacy is the tight-knit family he leaves behind as he continues on his journey.
A public viewing will be held at 9:00am on Thursday September 25th, 2014 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 10018 Farwest Dr. SW, Lakewood, WA 98498. Funeral Services will begin at 10:00am. Interment will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery.
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