Robert Cornelius Donker

Robert Donker was born April 21, 1917, and passed away October 23, 2017. Bob lived to be 100 years old! He said he would, and he did.

The day after his 100th birthday, he said; "Everyone needs a goal." "My next goal is 105." Well he didn't reach that, but he achieved several goals in his lifetime.

His heart was strong, and so kind as well. He was always eager to help everyone, and take nothing in return.

After graduating from Everett High School 'Class of 1935', the following year at age 19 he started his 45-year career with Soundview Pulp Company and Scott Paper Company, rarely missing a day of work as Electrical Supervisor. During his career, he received a "life-saving award" from the Governor of Washington for saving the life of a friend and fellow worker.

At age 20, he married his sweetheart, Agnes Parsons, always together throughout life, they celebrated 79 years of marriage in August of 2017. They had three children, Jeannette (Leon) Van Rossen, Colleen Donker, and Leonard (Ingrid) Donker; five grandchildren, Steve (Kathrine) Van Rossen, Sheri Van Rossen, Jeff Van Rossen, Skye Donker and Arden Donker; one great-granddaughter, Alix (Lee) Pace and two great great-grandchildren, Adam Pace and Gabby Pace.

Dad enjoyed family birthdays and all the many special occasion parties put on in fashion style by Jeannette. He looked forward to visiting his relatives in Oregon and the annual Donker Family Reunion.

Bob loved cars. He was a Ford man. He had a remarkable talent to repair anything, especially anything mechanical. With this combination, he built his own car to compete in the hot rod racing circuit, racing in the Northwest, including Seattle, Portland, and as well as Canada. He beat the competition and achieved the #1 car designation. Bob's car and his racing success were featured in HOT ROD MAGAZINE as HOT ROD OF THE MONTH, WASHINGTON WHIRLWIND. He won the Northwest Championship race for two consecutive years.

Bob was an outdoorsman. He set out to Eastern Washington on annual deer, elk, and pheasant hunting trips. He especially enjoyed fishing, whether he was out in his boat or on the side of the river. He knew the proper lure and technique to bring home the fish. He was once part of a search and rescue team called upon to go out to rescue stranded people.

Many hours of work with inspired enjoyment were spent tending to his large garden in his backyard, rows of raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and tayberries lined the sides. Most every vegetable was planted in the open area. He was famous for his homegrown tomatoes having his picture featured in "The Daily Herald" holding a family-size tomato.

Bob was a ticket holder to Skagit Speedway and enjoyed attending the races with his friend, the late Bob Ramstead. Monroe swap meets were traditional events with Leonard and Arden. Maybe he could find a part or two for Colleen's '66 Mustang, since he kept it in running condition.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelius and Josephine Donker; brothers, Charles and Wayne; and his sister, Ruth, as well as several lifelong friends.

The last two years, Bob received special care at Abode Senior Care AFH from Savi, Devi and her daughters, Amber and Pria.

We will all remember his handsome looks and his wonderful smile.