Robert Gene Vadset

Born June 27, 1944, Robert passed away on October 7, 2010 after a long and determined battle against heart disease. A proud Ballard Native, Robert was the youngest of three sons of Harold and Mabel Vadset. Harold had emigrated from Norway, and one of Robert's favorite journeys as a young man was his visit with many of his extended family members who still live in Tennfjord.

From a very young age, Robert's unique artistic talents and passion for creativity were noticed by his teachers who generously nurtured these qualities. He graduated from Seattle's Lincoln High School and continued his art studies at Burnley School. He was a driving creative force in joining with a partner to form Design 2002, providing innovative designs for prominent Northwest commercial developers, and then as cofounder and designer for Soaring Heart Futons. In more recent years Robert dedicated himself fully to his individual artistic expression and compiled an impressive body of work that evolved from painting to multimedia and photography. His work has been featured in several Seattle galleries, and he has been described as "an adventurer of the mind, willing to risk everything to get to the next place" in his evolution as an artist.

Robert fell in love 26 years ago with Paula Orr, and they married two years later. They have been best friends and have served as an inspirational example of a mutually supportive and fun-loving partnership, enjoying opportunities to become world travelers, together exploring arts and cultures to be found in a variety of countries in several continents.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Paula Orr Vadset, his brothers Harold (Virginia) and Alan (Barbara), his three nieces, four nephews, six great-nieces, and one great-nephew.