Recent Obituaries

Robert Leonard Ames, affectionately known as “Bob,” peacefully passed away on December 26, 2023, surrounded by his family at home in Kent, Washington. Born on April 23, 1940, in Flora, Illinois, to Leslie Gerald Ames and Marjorie Leonard Ames, his life echoed with a love for family, community, and the beauty of the great outdoors.

Bob spent his youth in Decatur, Illinois, and graduated from Decatur High School and Millikin University, where he met his wife, Joan Gentala Ames, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage. During a cross-country trip on their honeymoon, from the Midwest to Joan’s hometown on Mt. Rainier, he knew after driving over Chinook Pass and witnessing the majestic view of Mt. Rainier that the Pacific Northwest would become his home. Dedicated to the region, they moved to Kent in 1967, raised two daughters, Gina and Lesley, and formed lasting memories through family camping trips on Mt. Rainier, hiking, and participating in the community at the Methodist Church.

Exceptionally social, Bob enjoyed the company of family, friends, and strangers, relishing good conversation and hearty debate. He was an avid non fiction reader, liked sipping on Scotch and taking photographs at family events. In his later years, Bob loved vacationing in Hawaii and spending time with his grandchildren. One could find him at Starbucks talking with people or in walking clubs and men’s groups any day. His appreciation for nature led him to collect bonsai, animal sculptures, and rocks.

He worked at Boeing for 30 years in the marketing department and subsequently in licensing technology. He earned a Master of Science in Systems Management from the University of Southern California. A long-time Methodist, Bob attended Kent First United Methodist Church, actively participated in the community, and was seen as a strong leader.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Gerald Ames & Marjorie Leonard Ames, stepmother Sue Cliburn, and his sister, Judith Creamer. He is survived by his wife, Joan; two daughters, Gina Ames and Lesley Ames; his grandchildren, Mikyle Crawford (Michelle) and Mariah Crawford; two brothers and sisters-in-law, John Ames (Georgi) and William Ames (Kathie), along with nieces and nephews.

We will miss him greatly and forever keep him in our hearts.