My amazing husband, Robert Stirling, passed away on January 1 ^st . 2020.  I am writing this to celebrate what my best friend meant to me and for the remembrance of the joy and support he provided so many.

Robert was the youngest child of Kathryn and Louis Stirling.  Robert had five siblings; Chuck, Sharon, Stan, Karen, and Sandy.  He was the spoiled baby brother and the nerdy, chunky child that loved sharing comic books.  Robert went to St. Patrick's Elementary and was an altar boy at St. Patrick's Church.  Robert attended Roger's High School.

After graduation, Robert organized a "Free Store" on Monroe Street and gave all his possessions away to whoever needed them.  Many people gave back and Robert began his path towards community activism. Thank goodness, Robert's mother Catherine refused to allow Robert to give away his Elvis Albums.   Later, Robert joined the "Jesus People" and hiked across the United States Sharing the gospel, and had many interesting and mind expanding experiences.

During the next chapter in his life, Robert went to Eastern Washington University and completed a degree in psychology.  Robert worked in a Community Action Group in Colville Washington.  Robert helped families work together to create and sustain developmentally appropriate childcare.  Robert also became involved in supporting and participating in Community Drama productions.  Robert later worked with mental health agencies in the Spokane area and became a pre-school teacher at Head Start.

One of Robert's most cherished adventures was participating with Peace Corps in the Solomon Islands.  Robert shared many memories of the public beach bathrooms and eating exotic food stuff in remote parts of the island.  Robert often peppered his speech with Pigin phrases.  While in the Peace Corp, Robert had the opportunity to visit Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, England, and Ireland.

Robert came back to the United States and once again worked with Head Start. This time as a social worker at AEC.  Robert had a strong love of working with refugees and helped many families transition successfully into their new lives.

After completing his MSW, Robert worked for a few years at Children's Administration. Robert found his spot working with Foster Parents.  Robert also played Santa for the Foster Children Christmas Party as well as for staff.  Robert had a big Ho, Ho, Ho.  Robert was well known for his Elvis imitations, and for the special grilled peanut butter and banana sandwiches on the King's birthday.

Robert became a Faculty Field Instructor with Eastern Washington University.  Robert's office was frequently full of people visiting and asking for advice.  Robert was a great listener and always willing to help solve a problem or go to bat for his students. Roberts's laughter was infectious and many people still remember the smile his laughter brought as Robert walked through the building visiting with staff and students alike.

Robert helped develop a fatherhood curriculum and had the opportunity to present in many conferences across the United States.  We even had a pretty sweet Hotel Room in Honolulu when he presented there.

Robert was so much more than these few words can describe.  Robert sought opportunities to give back to his community.  Robert often felt the burden of what he could not make better.  Robert was kind, caring, compassionate, and always thought the best of everyone he met.

Robert was a wonderful father and husband.  I was so lucky to have shared my life with this man.  My "Baba" will be ridiculously missed.