Robert Edward Marshall

Robert E. Marshall, “Bob,” 79, went to be in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ March 12, 2015.

He was born in St. Paul, Minn., Oct. 6, 1935, to Joseph and Ruth (Haight) Marshall.

Bob joined the U.S. Navy after high school graduation. Bob met the love of his life, Arliss Lee, in 1956, and they were married in 1958 in Conway, Wash. Bob graduated from Western Washington University and taught school in Mt. Vernon, Stanwood, and Arlington, Wash., before moving his family to Sitka in 1968.

A longtime resident of Sitka, Bob taught at Blatchley Middle School from 1968 to 1984. He also spent numerous years as a commercial fisherman fishing the waters that surround Sitka. Bob was a master gardener and also used his imagination and adventurous spirit to pen and publish poems that described his love for God, nature and family. Bob was always known to give an encouraging word to people he encountered.

Preceding him in death were his parents, and brother, John.

Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Arliss; sister-in-law, Mary Marshall; children and spouses; Gwen (Philip) Younger, Chris (Kathy) Marshall, and Sally Kimmel; eight grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.

His example of faith, adventure, independence and a joy of living is his lasting legacy. Time spent with all his grandchildren simply enjoying the wonderful people they have become was his greatest joy.

A celebration of Bob’s life is at 1 p.m., May 2, at Wasilla Bible Church, 1651 West Nicola Avenue, Wasilla, with the Rev. Mike Schwartz officiating, with a reception following. Burial is at 10 a.m., June 8, at the National Cemetery, 803 Sawmill Creek Road, Sitka. Memorials may be made in Bob’s name to Family Promise, 690 S. Knik-Goose Bay Rd., Wasilla, AK 99654.