Robert Emmett Gabbard, Jr., Born in Tacoma, WA on April 2, 1945, gracefully transitioned Oct. 1, 2017 at home in Olympia, WA in his family’s embrace. Bob was a seeker, a visionary, an explorer. An avid outdoor enthusiast, who climbed frozen waterfalls, and mountains, Bob did not boast of summiting, rather, he spoke of the learning, the awe, the companions. Bob appreciated the subtle, the simple as well as the magnificent…the multitudes of NW greys, the glint in an eye, the curl of a fern, a damn good apple. (An apple connoisseur, from spending summers in the Yakima orchards of his Papaw, a Gabbard transplant from Kentucky.) By trade Bob had been a mental health counselor and college instructor, who later found great satisfaction as a sought-out, self-employedcontractor/cabinet-maker (Gabbard & Sons/Space Organizers) for many successful years. Additionally, Bob volunteered on international and national social justice projects. Yet, his favorite job was Dad. Ever the teacher, he inspired a quest to learn, self-challenge, persevere, and live with integrity, respect, and kindness. No river or lake too cold for a dip, no problem exempt from creative solving, no work too hard. (Not talking “working out”, here, Warren.) Once so independent, Bob was ultimately humbled by Alzheimer’s. And still he offered us his sincerity, wonder and purity of heart. He tolerated help with remarkable patience and grace even as his body slowed when the subtle again became profound. Ever the Teacher. We are so very grateful for this rich part of our shared life. Bob was predeceased by his parents Robert Gabbard, Sr. and Marj Warren Bourgeois, sister Vicki Williams and his first wife, Patricia Madrid. Bob is survived by wife-Peg Henry, children - Brian Gabbard Trujillo (James), Heidi Nichols (Clint), John Gabbard (Samantha) and Patrick Gabbard, brothers-Steven Warren (Jen), and Greg Warren (Tecla), two granddaughters-Autumn and Chloe Trujillo, nephew and niece - “Uncle Warren” Williams (Emily) and Anna Provost (Gary), Cousin Nancy Seals, dear extended family and friends. Bob valued the spiritual and practical works of The Community for Interfaith Celebration, who fully embraced our family’s Alzheimer’s path. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory will be gratefully accepted: http://oly-wa.us/cic/Donation.php Or to: ProvidenceSoundHomeCare& Hospice, who expertly eased our way, especially Lori, Andrea and Cat. 360-493-7981. Bob’s Celebration: Sat. Nov.4, 2:30PM, Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 2315 Division St. NW, Olympia.