Obituary of Robert Charles Munson

Robert Charles Munson Bob Munson was born in Yakima, Washington, the youngest son of Will and Jessie Munson. He passed away on January 16, 2012, two days before his 76th birthday. He received bachelor degrees in Political Science and Education from Central Washington College, as well as a Master's Degree in Curriculum Supervision. His doctoral work in Secondary Education was done at Michigan State University. Bob began his professional career as a law enforcement officer in Yakima County; ultimately however, Bob dedicated his life’s work to public education: first as a high school teacher in the Wenatchee School District, teaching Contemporary World Problems, History and Economics, and then as the Assistant Director of the Washington Safety Education Program for the Supt. of Public Instruction where he operated the test project at Renton High School. From there, Bob moved to East Lansing, Michigan, where he became a Graduate Research Assistant for the Highway Traffic Safety Center at Michigan State University. He returned to Olympia and worked in a variety of positions, both at the state and local school district levels, including Associate to the Superintendent of the Evergreen School District, and Supervisor of Research and Development, Supt. of Public Instruction. In 1986, Bob retired as the Deputy Superintendent of Schools for the Bethel School District. He was truly proud of the fact that, through his work, he touched the lives of literally thousands of students throughout the State of Washington. Those who knew Bob well will attest that he did nothing half way. He was an avid outdoorsman, a trait he passed on to all his children. He loved to both hunt and fish, especially the elusive steelhead, catching fish when most came home with none. In his heart, Bob was a cowboy. At his retirement, he announced “I think I’ll buy a horse” -- for many years he rode miles of trail throughout Washington, and often rode the high country of Montana and Wyoming. Bob loved telling a good story, Labrador retrievers, his mule Hogue, and white cake with chocolate frosting. But most of all Bob loved his family, especially his four children. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his oldest son, Bret; his brother, the Honorable Ray Munson and wife Christine; and his nephew, Mark. He is survived by his wife, Kay and their daughter, Jessie; his former wife, Sharon and their sons, Jace and Sally Munson, Tal and Lisa Munson; daughter-in-law, Judy Munson; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his brother, Bill and wife Jan; six nephews; and their families. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon on Monday, January 23, 2012 at St. Michael Catholic Church in downtown Olympia, with a reception to follow the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Olympia Union Gospel Mission. Please leave memories of Bob or condolences for the family in the Guestbook below.