Robert R Schmidt

Robert (Bob) R. Schmidt, Ph.D., a 41-year Gig Harbor resident, passed away on May 17 at the age of 87. He was born and raised in Binghamton, New York and graduated from Indiana University, where he met Joan, his beloved wife of 60 years. His professional life was devoted to preventing industrial accidents as a Safety and Health Engineer, primarily in the chemical manufacturing industry. He continued pursuing postgraduate education, earning a doctorate in Occupational Health, Safety, and Risk Management.  Professional memberships included National Safety Council, American Society of Safety Engineers and UN World Safety Organization.

Bob had a lifelong love of both the mountains and travel. He and his young family spent many summers camping though out the U.S. and in later years, Bob and Joan visited many countries in Europe and Central and South America.  He was active in the community, serving as a past president of the Gig Harbor Lions and member of the Tacoma Elks, Gideons, Navy League, and the congregation of the First Christian Church of Tacoma.

He enjoyed playing chess, swimming, bowling, golf, reading and crossword puzzles, and Bob and Joan were particularly fond of dancing to big band music. He was a published author of numerous professional articles and pamphlets, as well as a nonfiction book recounting his great-great grandfather’s journey on horseback across America 1886-87.

Bob was predeceased by his daughter Linda (1984), and is survived by Joan, his brother Don (Jackie) of Grantsburg, Indiana , his daughter Kat Johnsen of Gig Harbor, his son Bill (Dee) of Snohomish, and three grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A chapel service with a graveside following will take place on May 24 at 1pm at Haven of Rest in Gig Harbor. Remembrances may be made to the Tacoma Rescue Mission, 425 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma WA 98402.

After the service refreshments will be held at their house 14615 42nd Ave Ct NW, Gig Harbor, Washington 98332

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