Robert Edward Morris

Robert E. Morris of Chehalis, Washington, passed onto heaven while at home on Feb. 14, 2022. He was born in 1930 in Moundsville, West Virginia, to Raymond Morris and Rose Frey. He graduated from Moundsville High School in 1948. He was a two-time state track champion. Robert worked in the nearby Fostoria Glass Factory and in August, after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served two tours in Korea. Robert was awarded two Bronze Stars for distinguished bravery and two Purple Hearts. Robert attained the highest enlisted grade of master sergeant and regimental sergeant major. He attended Officer Candidates School in 1956. In Officer Candidate School for infantry, he scored a perfect 500 on his physical fitness, and was the first candidate to ever achieve a perfect score. He commanded a company and a battalion. Robert also went to Vietnam as a base provost marshal and corps provost marshal. He served as defense counsel, trial counsel and was president of the general court marshal. He retired in 1968 with the rank of major. During his 20 year service in the Army, he was awarded many various medals. Robert was stationed in Iceland, Panama, Germany and many locations in the United States.

In 1954 while stationed at Fort Lewis, he met his wife of 59 and a half years, Avalon. They were married and embarked on the life of a military family. They had six children who were born on the West Coast, East Coast and two overseas. Robert, Avalon and the children took advantage of where Robert was stationed by exploring several countries while stationed in Europe. They eventually settled in Chehalis, Washington, shortly before his retirement from the military. Their children include Cathy (John) Spears of Centralia, Diane (Dan) McGuinn of Little Rock, Robert Morris of Sparks, Nevada, Melody (Gary) West of Chehalis, Gwen Lawrence of Chehalis, and Rachel Morris of Chehalis. He attended many of his children’s track meets, concerts and other various other events.

Robert took a job with the state of Washington on the liquor control board in 1969 and was the liquor inspector for Lewis County for 22 years. Robert attained an associate of arts degree from the University of Maryland in Civil War history, and from Centralia Community College in police administration. He also earned a bachelor of arts degree from Central Washington University in police administration.

After his retirement, Robert served his community in various ways. Robert believed in community service and gave it all he could. He became involved with the Special Olympics, helping them form their first Lewis County track and field team, which he coached for nine years, taking the team to the University of Notre Dame for the international games. He also served on the board of directors as president for three years. Robert also coached little league football for many years, was umpire for many Little League and Babe Ruth baseball games, and was involved with the Chehalis high school track team.

Robert also taught senior driving courses and worked for the Driving While Intoxicated Task Force for many years. Robert received many awards for his volunteering, a few of which include 1984 Coach of the year WSO District 3, 1987 Lewis County Volunteer of the Year, 1987 DWI Task Force volunteer of the year, 1987 Outstanding Committee Member Lewis County Special Olympics, and the 1990 Governor’s Award for Volunteerism by Gov. Booth Gardener, just to name a few.

Robert had a passion for running and could be seen all over Chehalis running in the evenings. Because of that passion, he was involved with many running events, for example the Policeman Olympics. He won many medals for track and field events. Robert carried the torch through Lewis County for the Special Olympics. After he felt he couldn’t run anymore, he began bike riding, attending many events locally that included organizing the Bicycle Safety Jamboree. Robert also was a member of the Chehalis Kiwanis and the United Way. He also ran the Chehalis Food Bank for 10 years.

Robert is survived by his children, who feel very blessed they had such an exceptional person for a father; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

His children would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Thorbeckes of Chehalis for the love they showed him over the years; to Sweet Inspirations of Chehalis and his friends there for your exceptional service and friendship; and to Providence nurses who helped with his final needs. Dad will be greatly missed.

A Graveside Service will full military honors will be held March 19, 2022, at 10 a.m., at Claquato. A celebration of life will follow at 11 a.m., at the Adna Evangelical Church, 115 Dieckman Road, Adna, Washington, with luncheon potluck, sandwiches will be provided. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lewis County Gospel Mission.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Sticklin Funeral Chapel.