Robert "Bob" Seldon Hurley

Robert “Bob” Hurley passed away peacefully in Portland, Oregon on September 29, 2024, at the age of 86. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Born in Houston, Texas on November 14, 1937, to Seldon and Edith “Ann” Hurley (Holbrook), he was the oldest of three siblings and went on to live a full and vibrant life, leaving behind a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Bob moved to Oregon in 1988, and eventually settled in the Gresham area with his wife, Martha. A proud Air Force veteran, Bob’s career journey took him to the world of information technology, where he was highly regarded as an executive and a leader. His logical, organized mind served him well in both his professional and personal life; he loved lists, the more detailed the better!

He was known for his gregarious nature, his love of adventure, and his warmth. Never one to meet a stranger, Bob was the kind of person who could walk into any room and leave knowing everyone by the end of the night. He had an aura that made people feel comfortable, and his storytelling was legendary. Whether recounting a fishing trip, sharing tales from his Air Force days, or just enjoying the company of those around him, Bob had a way of holding court in the most genuine and natural way.

An animal lover to his core, Bob had a particular fondness for birds, raising and keeping doves that often seemed drawn to him. He was a gentle, sensitive soul who found great joy in the quiet moments spent observing nature. His love of the outdoors extended to hunting and fishing, two activities he enjoyed with family and friends.

Bob had a unique ability to stay calm and objective in tough situations, approaching problems like a movie he was watching from the outside in. His logical, yet kind approach to life endeared him to many, and he lived every day with a positive attitude and a willingness to help others.

Known by nicknames such as “U Bo,” “Uncle Bobby,” “Big Bob,” and, affectionately; “Big Bad Bob.” Bob’s family and friends will always remember him for his caring, larger-than-life presence. He was always in the middle of the action, enjoying life to the fullest.

Bob will be deeply missed by his wife, Martha, and his Texas family, including daughter Meredith Harper (Jeff); son Seldon (JoAnna); granddaughters GeorgeAnna Yetterberg (Trevor), Parker Hurley, and Katherine Harper.

His Oregon family was very special to him as well, and their affection for him will be apparent as they celebrate his life at his memorial service which will be held at Gresham United Methodist Church on April 5th, with a celebration of life to follow at the family home.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Mary Ann Ekblad, and brother, David Hurley.

Bob will be remembered by family and friends ranging from his deep Texas roots to the PNW (especially Oregon), as a man who lived a full life, a man who loved deeply, and a man whose kindness and light will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Oregon Humane Society or the Care Ecosystem Dementia Program of Providence Portland.