Robert Avans, of Chattanooga, passed away on Thursday, January 07, 2010.Mr. Avans was born in Chattanooga to Alton and Hazel Avans. He was of the Baptist faith and retired from Combustion Engineering after 41 years as a draftsman. He will always be remembered as a caring husband, father and grandfather and as being talented as a heavy machine operator.Robert is survived by his wife of 35 years, Nina R. Avans; children, Debbie Gates of Harrison, Danny Avans of Raleigh, NC , Jeffrey White of Hixson, and Cathy Gordon of Chattanooga; Grandchildren, Emily Avans, Aaron Avans, Cody White, and Chad Clayton; and sister, Mary Joe Barrintine.Memorial donations may be made to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association. 135 Parkinson Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305, (800) 223-2732, www.apdaparkinson.orgHe was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Rhonda Smith.The family will receive friends from 2 to 8 PM on Saturday, January 9, 2010 at the funeral home.Services for Robert will be held at 2 PM on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at the funeral home with Rev. Donald Fraley officiating. Burial will follow at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.mem.com.