Robert C. “Bear” Thiessen

Longtime Maple Valley resident, Robert C. “Bear” Thiessen, died Jan. 1, 2015 at Tacoma General Hospital. He was 80 years old.

He was born March 24, 1934 in Nebraska.

He grew up as an only child and vowed to have a large family. His family moved to Salem, Ore. where he met his future wife, Norma Jean Reagle. Together, they raised five boys and also helped raise two grandchildren.

His love for his boys showed through sporting events, whether it was hunting or sports. He was always there for each and every one of his children.

His love for sports led to longtime friendships with a wide range of people. They knew him as coach and his teams loved him. To this day, people will talk about a time when Bear befriended them and became a mentor.

He is survived by his wife, Norma; five sons, Tony (Cyndy), Mike (Diana), Jeff (Gloria), Kevin and Mark. He has 18 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

Family and friends will remember him as a loving and caring person, a friend and a mentor. Most of all he will be remembered as a loving husband and father.

Services are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Jan. 24 at the Kent Senior Center.