Robert Firth “Bob” Jorgensen

Robert Firth “Bob” Jorgensen, 88, passed away peacefully at home on May 17, 2015 surrounded by family.

Bob was born in Burlington, WA where his father managed the fish hatchery. He was raised in Ballard and attended Webster Grade School and James Monroe Middle School. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1944, lettering in football, basketball and baseball, and was in the Sports Hall of Fame.

Bob started at the University of Washington and after one quarter entered the U.S. Air Corps. After his wartime service, he returned to the U. W. and was a 4 year Letterman in basketball and baseball. He was the first freshman to earn the Big W. Bob was a member of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity and cherished his friendships from the “Fiji” house. He graduated in Education and taught at Hoquiam High School for 2 years before entering the U.W. Dental School. Upon graduation in 1958, he began a dental practice in Bellevue. Bob enjoyed his dental career and was much loved by his patients.

Bob Jorgensen and Marilyn Ebling were married in 1953. They met on a blind date in college and each felt like they were the lucky one. They traveled extensively throughout the world and spent winters on the island of Kauai. Bob was proud to say he climbed the Great Wall of China, Mt. Rainier and the Eiffel Tower. His favorite past time was golf and he was a long-standing member of Overlake Golf and Country Club, serving as President in 1977.

He is predeceased by brothers Edward, Calhoun and sister Ruth. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Marilyn, daughters Kimberly and Cynthia, sister-in-law and brother-in-law MaryJane and Jack Powell and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 10th, 4:00 pm at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Medina, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Mayo Clinic Cancer Research, Attn: Development, 200 – 1st Street S.W., Rochester, MN 55905, 855-852-8129.