I had the privilege of knowing Bob as a professor, neighbor and colleague.

My freshman year I had intro to politics/American politics from him and it was an outstanding introduction to collegiate life.  Several episodes I recall with great clarity stand out in my mind.  The class was at 7:50 and one day it snowed – about 2 inches.  The class was about ½ full - - - Bob looked around when he walked in and said, “if any of your colleagues choose to run for office, they’ll never get votes in Chicago if they are staying home on a day like this.  Remind me not to vote for them - - let’s take attendance today.”   At one point we read Why We Lost the ERA.  During one of the discussions, someone in the class asked Bob if he was a feminist…..he said, “of course - - and everyone in this room should be too.”   Finally, I recall when Willamette was looking for a new professor and Richard Ellis interviewed and lectured to our class as part of his visit.   After he left Bob asked the class to provide some feedback – he said, this is your chance to “give this guy a life or send him off somewhere else – we’re actually giving the students some power here.”   I recall this with quite fondness, because, in fact we did feel empowered - - and liked Prof Ellis.

I had the chance to travel with Bob for admission work, we lived next door to him for a spell at one point and always liked watching basketball or other sporting events with him and Jerry Gray.  He was a great gift to Willamette and I’m sorry we’ve lost him.

Chris Simmons, 93

I had the privilege of working on the development of the Kaneko Commons program with Bob the year before Kaneko opened and then to work as one of the original CMs during the Common's opening year. What impresses me the most about Bob is not only his kindness, but his deep commitment towards the students and the University. Whenever I was with Bob, I felt like he truly cared about me and was interested in our ideas and opinions as students. We knew that in Bob we were heard and supported. I spent many hours in meetings with Bob or sitting in his office or at the Commons events and council meetings. I developed a great love and respect for him and all that he has done. He was a very special man and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have known him.

We were so honored when Bob attended our wedding 3 years ago, driving over an hour to get there (after getting lost on the way). The last time I saw Bob was almost 2 years ago after he convinced me to come back to Willamette and for a panel discussion on Kaneko’s history. I was busy and stressed with medical school and studying for the boards at the time, but agreed to come, out of respect and love for Bob more than anything. He treated me and some other students to dinner and we had a chance to catch up. I’m sure glad I came. His legacy will live on in all of us; the people and lives he has touched through his love and service.  


With Much Love, 


Michelle Monnie 
Class of 2007