Thursday, April 25, 2024
Robert "Bob" Stalder, age 86, died Aug. 26, 2022, and his wife, Elaine Stalder, age 81, died March 22, 2023, in Edmonds. They are survived by Elaine's sister Donna Davidson; son Eric Stalder, his wife Kim, and their two sons, Espen and Larson; and daughter Kristie Terwilliger, her husband Garrett, and their three children, Malia, Kailani, and Koa.
Bob was born and raised in Tonasket, Washington, while Elaine was born in Seattle and then raised in Candle and Anchorage, Alaska. Bob joined the Army in 1955 and served two years before attending Washington State University, where he met the love of his life, Elaine. They were married June 30, 1962.
Bob and Elaine both earned their teaching degrees and went on to dedicate their professional lives to education. Bob was a high school Industrial Arts teacher while Elaine primarily taught second and third grade. They both taught for and retired from the Edmonds School District.
Bob was known for his talent in woodworking and for helping those he loved. He designed and built the house he raised his family in while also working on the homes of numerous friends and family.
Elaine was an exceptional teacher, earning "WEA Educator of the Year" in 1993. Elaine will be remembered as a kind, caring mother, grandmother, and friend. Her greatest joy in life was being a wonderful "Grammy" to her five grandchildren.
It was their love for each other and for friends and family that made them an inspiration to others. Even through the challenges of Alzheimer's, they supported each other with nothing but love and compassion. Theirs were lives well-lived, and together they may now rest in peace.
A Celebration of Life for Bob and Elaine's friends and family will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 24, 2023, at Beck's Tribute Center, 405 Fifth Ave. S., Edmonds.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association.
