Robert Adrian Vermeulen

April 19, 1964 – April 10, 2010

Born to Jack (stepmother Gail) and Linda (stepfather John Henault) in Seattle, Robert grew up with four younger sisters, Rebecca and Ria and stepsisters, Malia and Jaimi, in the Bothell area, graduating from Inglemoor High in 1982.

The son and grandson of carpenters, he was exposed early to the construction trades and found his calling as a union carpenter.

Quiet and unassuming, he was a keen observer — bright and inquisitive. He was a ready learner and patient teacher, rising to lead positions wherever he worked.

Indeed he was known as a man of action who excelled at what he did.

With a wry and clever wit and his feet firmly on the ground, he lived a vigorous and vital life.

A natural athlete and avid sportsman, he was adept and skilled with most any tool or craft. He was quick to lend a hand and expertise, to help out whether it was a deck, fence or remodel. He was a person who one was always glad to be with and happy to have as a neighbor or friend.

Robert cherished his beloved wife, Mim (Miriam)and their family of three boys, Cory, Cody and Kyle.

He raised them in his "Golden Rule" fashion mentoring them in a fair and even way.

Passing on his passion for the great outdoors, camping, hiking, fishing and hunting with them was his favorite activity, especially at the family cabin in Cle Elum.

They lived in and remodeled a home in Duvall from 1993-2004, sold it and moved to Carnation.

His dream was to move to Ellensburg and, using the tools left to him by his father and his many acquired talents, start his own woodshop and construction outfit and enjoy the country life.

Regretfully Robert was stricken with pervasive stomach cancer last fall. Because he was so fit and in good health the doctors took heroic measures to save him.

For four long months of operations and intense hospital care, the "Battle with Cancer" was ferocious but overwhelming as he struggled valiantly.

Robert opted to go home for his hospice care.The last three months he has been surrounded by the constant care of Mim, his hospice nurses and support from Camp Korey, his employer GLY construction, and many friends and family.

Ever so stoic, he lived with dignity and humility as always, concerned about the future care and welfare of his family more than himself.

We regret for his "what could’ve beens" mostly because with Robert behind it, "it would’ve been." Our loss is profound yet we must let him rest in peace and "handle it" here for him, knowing he made the very best of his shortened life.