Robert Donald Lynch

OBITUARY FOR ROBERT D. LYNCH

Robert D. “Bob” Lynch, 94, formerly of Hood River, died Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at his home in La Grande.

Arrangements are entrusted to Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center of La Grande.

Robert Donald Lynch was born on May 5, 1928 in Vader, Washington, the son of Luther Bryan and Geneva “Eva” (Andross) Lynch.

Bob, as he was known, was raised and educated in Parkdale until he enlisted in the U.S. Navy toward the end of WWII.  After his honorable discharge he attended Eastern Oregon College of Education in La Grande where he met his future wife, Joan Skeen.  Bob and Joan were engaged on Valentines Day and were married on the 2nd of July 1950 at the United Methodist Church in La Grande. 

The couple lived in Salem briefly while Bob worked for the Oregon State Police before moving to Hood River where Bob began working for the City of Hood River.  He later became a deputy for Hood River County and then worked briefly for the Oregon Liquor Control Commission while he ran a successful campaign for Hood River County Sheriff.  After serving 12 years he retired.

Bob and Joan were members of the Riverside Community Church, the Hood River Elks and Bob was a charter member of the Crag Rats.  In 2009 Bob and Joan moved to La Grande where Bob was a member of the La Grande Country Club and the American Legion. 

Surviving relatives include his wife Joan of La Grande; children and their spouses, Nancy and Randy Romine of Canby, Kevin and Shelly Lynch of Elgin, Bryan and Ann Lynch of Newberg; 7 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren and a brother Herb Lynch of Oklahoma.

Besides his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, Bryan and sister Irene.

Contributions in memory of Robert D. Lynch may be made to the Crag Rats, P.O. Box 1159, Hood River, OR  97031.

Condolences may be left at www.danielsknopp.com.