Robert Gary Bailey

October 18, 1939 – July 20, 2026

Robert "Bob" Gary Bailey, a proud veteran, dedicated family man, and lifelong outdoorsman, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at the age of 86.

Bob grew up in Camas, Washington where he learned to appreciate outdoor life in the Pacific Northwest. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his lifelong friends.

Bob attended the University of Washington and was in the Delta Tau Delta fraternity where he met many friends and for many years would participate in an annual gathering. Post graduating from UW he went into the Navy as a Supply Officer on the USS Parsons.

Bob eventually settled in Longview, Washington, where he spent his adult life building a family and being close to rivers and ocean for all his fishing adventures. It was rare for Bob to go out fishing without returning with a catch.

Above all else, Bob was a devoted father and grandfather. He took immense pride in his family and cherished every moment spent with them. He is survived by his four loving children: Brad Bailey of Vancouver, WA; Tim Bailey of Longview, WA; Jana Wilson of Edmonds, WA; and Diana Peterson of Hubbard, OR. He was also a proud and adoring grandfather to his four grandchildren—Jack and Sam Wilson, and Audrey and Steven Peterson—who brought immense joy to his later years. Bob is also survived by his sister Jan Whitehead from Washougal, WA.

True to his Northwest roots, Bob loved the outdoors. He was happiest when he was fishing alongside family and friends. Those moments of quiet nature, shared laughter, and good company defined the spirit of who he was. His favorite time to fish was in the spring along the Grey's River in Washington.

Bob’s warmth, quiet strength, and social nature will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.