Robert Small

Robert F. “Bob” Small, 73, of Yakima, WA went to his rest Sunday, May 4, 2014 after an extended illness. His family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of Yakima Memorial Hospital. Bob was born in Sheridan, Wyoming to Robert A. and Katherine Small on March 7, 1941. Bob grew up on a 6,000 acre cattle ranch in Davenport, WA. His love of camping and the outdoors was a lifelong passion. His career was as a boiler maker and welding supervisor, and he helped build Grand Coulee Dam. He was a member of the local International Boiler Maker’s Union #242 for 30 years and also served as local President. In 1960 Bob was married to Evelyn Carpenter. Three sons, Tim, Tom and Ted were born to that union. In 1985 Bob and Patty Schultz Duke were married and enjoyed 29 years together. Bob was very active in the Yakima Seventh-day Adventist Church, a positive thinker who believed in God’s promises. Bob is survived by his wife, Patty Small of Yakima, his sons Tim (Kelly) Small of Benton City, Tom (Carol) Small of Kennewick and Ted (Tammy) Small of Spokane, as well as two step-daughters, Mary Duke and Margo Duke of Houston, Texas. He is also survived by his sister Betty (Walt) Smith of Salome, Arizona. Bob cherished his 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bill Small, sister Mary Jane McGallaird and step-daughter Susan Duke Thomas. A Memorial Service will be held for Mr. Small Saturday, May 10, 2014 at the Yakima Seventh-day Adventist Church, 507 North 35th Avenue, Yakima, WA at 3:30 pm. Please share your memories of Bob at www.valleyhillsfh.com. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert Small, please visit our flower store.