Robert Lee “Bob” Oliver passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025. Born on March 21, 1941, in Verndale, Minnesota, Bob was a man whose life was rooted in family, community, and a love of the outdoors.

In 1949, Bob’s family relocated to Buckley, Washington, and then settled in Enumclaw a year later. It was in Enumclaw where Bob grew up and built the foundation of the values that would define his life — loyalty to loved ones, generosity toward his community, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Bob joined the U.S. Navy, proudly serving his country from 1959 until his honorable discharge in 1967. He was stationed across the United States and carried the discipline and sense of service from his military years into every aspect of his life.

Bob retired from Grays Harbor County after 25 years of service as a surveyor and roads and bridge construction inspector.

Bob married his high school sweetheart, Sheri Spencer, and together they began raising their family. He later married Verda, with whom he shared many meaningful years and countless memories. To Bob, family was everything. He believed life’s greatest gifts were found in time spent with those he loved.

An avid outdoorsman, Bob found peace and purpose in nature. Whether hiking forest trails, pitching tents under the stars, or patiently waiting in the woods on a crisp morning hunt, he felt most alive surrounded by the beauty and stillness of nature. These moments were often shared with family and friends, creating bonds and memories that will live on for generations.

Beyond his devotion to family and nature, Bob was deeply committed to his community including friends of Bill W. He gave of his time and talents freely — always the first to lend a helping hand, offer a warm smile, or volunteer when someone was in need. His life was a quiet but powerful testament to the difference one kind heart can make.

Bob is preceded in death by his infant son James, parents, Wendell and Gladys Oliver, and brother Russel.

He is survived by his wife Verda; his sister Helen (John) and brother Glen (Sharon); his children Bob (Brenda), Steve (Cindy), and Jeff (Shauna); stepsons Allen (Teresa), Brian (Debbie), and Kevin (Julie); 11 grandchildren, five great-children, extended family, and countless friends who were blessed to know him.

His legacy lives on in the values he passed down, the lives he touched, and the trails he blazed — both in the wilderness and in the hearts of those who loved him.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on May 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Montesano Church of God, 317 E. Spruce St., Montesano, WA.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org), P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011, or to Montesano Church of God.

Remember those beneath the flowers who also had their day…

Before the sunshine of life had withered them away.

By Wendell Oliver