Robert Strong

Robert H. Strong, 78, a resident of Oak Harbor, died at Whidbey General Hospital March 11, 2004, with his family by his side.

Mr. Strong was born Aug. 3, 1925, in Everett, the son of H. Ralph and Margaret Powell Strong. Raised in Coupeville, Bob was a lifelong resident of Whidbey Island. He was united in marriage to Sara Jane Vandenburg on Sept. 1, 1955. He was employed as a mechanic at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station until his retirement in 1980.

During his retirement years, Bob and his wife enjoyed traveling together and with their family. He was a valued volunteer at the Humane Society Thrift Shop in Mount Vernon, using his many skills to retore items to useable condition.

Bob is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sara Jane at the family home; two daughters, Megan Strong of Mount Vernon and Cynthia Strong and son-in-law Martin St. Clair of Mount Vernon, Iowa; two grandchildren, Jeffrey and Margaret St. Clair; and very dear friends Denman and Nancy Moody of Oak Harbor. Bob was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His kindness, generosity and concern for others will always be remembered by his family and his many friends.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held Monday, March 22, at 2 p.m. at Oak Harbor United Methodist Church. Friends and family members will have the opportunity to share remembrances. Memorials may be made to Friends of Home Health Care and Hospice at Whidbey General Hospital, P.O. Box 400, Coupeville, WA 98239.