Robert Hughes

9/14/1928 – 8/13/2012
Bob Hughes, age 83, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 13th. He  was  born September 14, 1928 in Spokane, WA to Frank James Hughes and Gertrude (Gatz) Hughes. Bob had an older brother Frank and two sisters Nancy and Suzanne. The family moved to Omaha, Nebraska when Bob was a year old. Bob graduated from Creighton University High School in Omaha, Nebraska. He spent a year in a Jesuit seminary in St Louis. After serving in the US Air Force during the Korean conflict he moved out west and earned his B.A. in Civil Engineering from Seattle University. He earned his law degree from University of Washington and practiced as a patent attorney in Sumas and Bellingham for many years. He authored several books on patent law. Bob had a great sense of humor and always had a story to tell. He enjoyed hiking, playing chess and being with his friends and family. Bob was preceded in death by his son William Robert Hughes. He is survived by his loving wife Pat, children; Mary (Richard) Chavez, Diane (Stan) Rochlin, Debbie Hughes, Michael (Angela) Hughes, Laura (Ed) Fox; grandchildren; Robbie, Danielle, Steven, Ryan, Chase, Violet and Ellen, and many loving relatives and friends. Bob’s family wishes to recognize and thank Dr. Michael Steele and the Whatcom Hospice staff including Kathy, Nancy, Sheila, Don, Nancy T, Vicki and Mary. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peters Catholic Church, 6210 Mt. Baker Highway in Deming on Thursday, August 23 at 11 AM. A reception will follow at the church. Committal will follow at St. Peters Catholic Cemetery. Fr. Emilio Gonzales will be officiating.