Robert A Ettinger, 75

Robert A. Ettinger, 75, died Monday, Feb. 28, 2011, in Coeur d'Alene. Born and raised in Indianapolis, at age 17 he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and was stationed at Twentynine Palms, Calif. Honorably serving for eight years, he attended Orange Coast College when he was a reservist. It was there he met his wife, Catherine, in art class. He went on to have two children and embarked on a career as a boat tooler in Orange County.

In 1981, he moved his family to Coeur d'Alene where he worked as a finish carpenter and built a wonderful home. He enjoyed hobbies such as photography, painting, swimming and spending quality hands-on time with his kids. Years later, divorced and with kids grown, he helped care for his older brother Dick when terminally ill with cancer. He traveled in his 1967 GMC with his dog Shep for a few years reconnecting with family and friends in California and Indiana. He also lovingly helped care for his Uncle Oran of West Terre Haute who lived to age 106.

Bob lived his last 12 years peacefully as a property caretaker near Lofts Bay just outside Coeur d'Alene. This role especially provided him opportunity for comfort and wonderful times with his kids, grandkids and dear local friends and coworkers-many he considered family. He also took much pleasure in woodworking projects. His last was a rowboat for his grandchildren from a boat mold he built to perfection 38 years ago. He will be remembered most as a very hard-working, kind and dependable man to family, friends and employers. People will miss his jolly laugh and wonderful stories.

Survivors include his daughter, Diane Ettinger; a son, Norman Ettinger and his wife Danielle; two grandchildren Sloane and Hayden; a brother, Les Ettinger and several nieces and nephews.

Private memorials will take place in Idaho and California. Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d'Alene, was entrusted with final arrangements.

Please visit Bob's online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.