Robert "Bob" Lordahl's Obituary
Robert Austin Lordahl passed to Eternal Life on December 21, 2023, in Tacoma, WA. Following a slow decline from congestive heart failure, he died at Allenmore Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, colleague and friend.
Bob was born May 10, 1935, in Fond du Lac, WI the treasured younger son of Reverend Carl and Thelma Lordahl. His father’s vocations of Methodist pastor and heating contractor moved the family to WI and MI locations until they settled in Milwaukee, WI when Bob was in 4th grade. He graduated from Whitefish Bay High School in 1953 with a record of outstanding athletic achievement cut short by shoulder injuries. High school sweetheart, Janet Cole, became an important part of his life in 1951. Bob followed big brother, Dan, to Northwestern University where they enjoyed Chi Psi fraternity together. He continued at NU and graduated from Northwestern Dental School in 1962. Bob and Janet were married in June of 1959.
In 1962 Bob enlisted in the US Army Dental Corps. He was assigned to Ft. Lewis - it was love at first sight for this Midwesterner! Daughter Julie arrived during our two years at Ft. Lewis. It was a very special time, but Bob had another goal in mind. In 1964 we returned to Chicago and Northwestern where Bob completed his Orthodontic training in 1966. Son Garrett arrived and Bob was still dreaming of the Pacific NW.
We moved to Lakewood in April 1968. It really was a dream come true! He was a “wire bender” there from 1968 - 1995. He loved that he could help a person change their self-image. The office was a happy place! Bob was active in various professional groups including the American Association of Orthodontics, PNW Association of Orthodontics, WA State Dental Association, and Pierce County Dental Society. He was a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics and member of the Edward H. Angle Society.
Lakewood Rotary was an important part of his life for 49 years - he served as president 1986-87. His membership at Oakbrook Golf & CC and passion for golf added much joy and many treasured friendships. He was an active member of Little Church on the Prairie since 1968. He served as an Elder and member of the pastor seeking committee.
Above all he was a devoted family man. He rarely missed a family sports event or school performance and captured many memories with his skilled photography. We had wonderful adventures on the water (1973 – 2010) from Olympia to northern Vancouver Island. Our boat, the Iva Jewel, was our “floating cabin” and a precious part of our family life. Most Fall seasons included hunting with partner, Max. Bob felt very fortunate to have a long retirement that he greatly enjoyed with Janet, family and friends. He will be forever treasured in our hearts.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Janet; beloved daughter Julie (Van) Collins and their children Griffin (Leah) and Grace; beloved son Garrett (Sandra) and their daughters Marissa and Noelle; brother Dan (Anne); sister-in-law Judy Harms; many cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Thelma Lordahl: and in-laws, James and Evelyn Cole; brother-in-law, Donald Harms; and many special friends.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service and reception will be held at The Little Church on the Prairie. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:
The Little Church on the Prairie - Deacons’ Fund OR Lakewood Rotary (PO Box 99786, Lakewood, WA. 98496) OR charity of your choice in honor of Bob.
Janet and family especially thank Franke Tobey Jones for the excellent care and support they provided Bob since 2021.
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