Robert James Pittis

Robert James Pittis, a loyal husband and dedicated family man went home to be with his Savior on October 31, 2022. Robert (Bob) was born on September 11, 1929, as the youngest of 6 siblings born to William Pittis and Clarinda Lambert in Rome, NY.

In his early years, Bob’s family traveled by train to the State of Washington where his older brother had been stationed and settled. He grew up in Edmonds and then in King County. After a short time as a firefighter with the US Dept of Forestry, he joined the Army. He was stationed to Alaska with his team to blow up potential landing strips.

Bob met and married the love of his life, Michele (Mickey) Margaret O’Brien on April 24, 1954. Together they built a life around square dancing, playing cards with friends, their 5 busy children and extended family dinners and celebrations. They celebrated 54 years of marriage, building two beautiful family homes and finally retiring to Snohomish, WA.

Bob was a true sportsman and had the most amazing stories about those adventures. From a terrifying Alaskan Bear encounter to hitchhiking up to Skagit County to duck hunt, carrying a shotgun and decoys, and actually getting picked up! He could remember and point out the exact ponds where he hunted in Kirkland that are now strip malls and parking lots. He continued to hunt and fish into his 80s.

Bob worked as a career carpenter. He was a master craftsman by trade and hobby. He built his family home in Kirkland where his children grew up and they developed strong friendships with the neighbors and community until Bob retired. Bob and Mickey then moved to Skagit County where he designed and built a beautiful earth-sheltered home. His talents also extended to all types of woodcrafts. There are still wooden toys, lamps, carved figures, and boxes with hidden drawers that he created and gifted to his family and friends.

As a retiree, he continued to enjoy woodworking, fishing, hunting, and gardening. What a green thumb! Bob was a teasing, loving, and caring grandfather. He was proud to be at any and every event celebrating his grandchildren. He was a devoted husband and took gentle care of his wife, Mickey until she passed in 2008. He was also a role model to all on how to keep and treasure lifetime friendships.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, and all his siblings: William, Alice, John (Jack), and Harry.

Bob is survived by his five children: son Russ (Kathy); daughter Jennifer; daughter Linda (Bob); son Jim (Rochelle); son Bill; 21 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and lifelong friends.

Bob was a family man, a man of faith, an avid outdoorsman, and talented craftsman. He leaves a legacy of faith and family. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bauerfuneralchapel.com for the Pittis family.