Robert Clarence Tupper, 80

Robert Clarence Tupper, 80, passed away April 27, 2012, at the Hospice House in Hospice of North Idaho after a long progression of ALS. Robert was born in Nez Perce on Feb. 18, 1932, the fourth of six children born at home. He was raised on a farm where he attended a one-room school house. The family moved to Spokane in 1945, where he graduated from West Valley High School.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Marjorie (Wampnar); a son, Robert of Highland Ranch, Colo.; and daughters Nancy Durk of Sydney, Neb., Patricia Unruh of Spokane and Donna Peter of Sedalia Colo.; 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; sister Mary Brady of Spokane and brothers, Ed Tupper of Coeur d’Alene and Art Tupper of Spokane.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Irene Tupper; sister Barbara Hunter; brother Bill Tupper and grandson Matheau Durk.

Robert served four years in the naval reserves. He worked for Northern Pacific Railroad and Burlington Northern Railroad for 37 years, retiring at the age of 55. His life was filled with family vacations, fishing trips, camping and hiking, plus adventures with family and friends.

He left his family with lasting memories of singing in the car, Sunday drives, water skiing and sledding in the winter. He shared his hobbies and crafts with family and friends over the years. He loved playing Dominos, cards, and the beautiful yard and gardens he helped create over the years with his wife, Margie.

A memorial gathering for friends and family will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 2, 2012, at Bell Tower Funeral Home, 3398 E. Jenalan Ave., Post Falls.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to the Evergreen Chaper for ALS for the Washington and Idaho area.

Please visit Robert’s online memorial at www.belltowerfuneralhome.com.