Robert Oscar Maier

Robert Oscar “Bob” Maier, 86, of Freeland, longtime Whidbey Island resident, educator, community theater member and animal lover, passed away on June 30, 2010, at Veterans Administration Hospital in Seattle.

Bob was born on Feb. 24, 1924, to Jacob and Katherine (Reng) Maier in Wilkes-Barre, Penn. Following high school graduation, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army and served on the European Front, including southern France and the Battle of the Bulge. He experienced many harrowing missions, including several taking place behind enemy lines in Germany. He received the Bronze Star for heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy.

Bob met the love of his life, Lorraine Allison Kay, while attending UCLA. They were wed on Aug. 28, 1949, and were married for over 60 years. Their children include Michael, Claire, Teresa, James, Phillip and Mary.

Bob possessed three academic degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts and Doctor of Education. He taught math and statistics for 35 years at El Camino Community College in Torrance, Calif., and in 1967, he was the Dean of Students at Maui Community College.

Among other things, Bob enjoyed sailing, camping, bowling and golf. He loved animals and was a strong supporter of organizations geared to help animals in need.

He also had a penchant for practicing magic and various word and number games, performing his magic on stage with his wife Lorraine as an assistant, for schools and nursing homes. He was a member of the Academy of Magical Arts, based at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, Calif. He also enjoyed acting in stage plays with community theater groups.

Bob is survived by his wife, six children, 13 grandchildren, and his four comedic cats, Flash, Ben, Risky Business and Cherche, and loyal dog, Danny Boy.

A Graveside Service will take place at Sunnyside Cemetery on Wednesday, July 14, at 3 p.m., Rev. Phillip Raether officiating. Military Honors are under the auspices of Fort Lewis Honor Guard. Flowers may be sent in care of Whidbey Memorial, or donations in Robert’s name may be made to one of his favorite charities: Defenders of Wildlife; the Humane Society of the United States; World Wildlife Fund; the Nature Conservancy; the ASPCA, and/or the Doris Day Animal League. Family and friends are encouraged to leave their condolences at www.whidbeymemorial .com. Also, a more detailed story of his life will be posted on that site.