Robert Bob Harold Gilstrap, 63, of Sedro-Woolley passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of January 23, 2009 after a hard fought battle with cancer.
Bob was born in Pax River, Maryland on November 12, 1945 to Jean and Chester Cox and was the oldest of six brothers and sisters.
Bob was a lifetime member of the North American Hunting Club and the NRA. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, at times watching the ‘SeaChickens’ Seahawks, and Nascar. Bob was a certified diesel mechanic and was always willing to share his knowledge and help with anyone in need of automotive advice.
Bob was preceded in death by his mother, Jean Gilstrap, and brothers Kevin and David Cox. He is survived by his longtime companion, Dixie Proctor, daughter, Crystal Birkett, son Andrew Gilstrap, step-daughter, Katie Anderson, and step-son Dan Shafer. Grandchildren, Nicholas, Chloe, Breanna, Ethan, Ben, Kyle, Vicki, and Sarah. His brother, James Gilstrap and sisters, Julie Dickinson and Lisa Leonard. Numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by Dixie’s children, Cindy, Peggy, Brian, Brad, Bonnie, and their children and grandchildren.
He was respected by many and loved by more. ‘He said I hope you get the chance to live like you were dying’-Tim McGraw.
A Memorial Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 2:00PM at Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley with Pastor Jim Cannon of Bethel Assembly of God Church officiating. Memorials are suggested to North Puget Oncology or the NRA.