Robert W. Bob Keiper

Robert W. “Bob” Keiper of Bellingham, WA, age 69, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends on Friday, July 18, 2014, in Bellingham. Bob was born to Alyce and H.C. “Mike” Keiper of Gibbon NE. He married the love of his life, Helen Mae “Toots” Bengtson of Trumbull NE. Bob obtained a BA from Kearney State Teachers College and a Masters of Theater Education along with a Ph.D. in Education from University of Northern Colorado. Bob taught at high schools in Nebraska and Colorado, at the University of Southern Illinois and retired from Western Washington University, a tenured professor in the Woodring College of Education. Bob was a teacher’s teacher recognized by students and colleagues as gifted in his ability to instill the passion for teaching. Bob also loved the theater, directed numerous plays, loved to travel the world and loved people; often endearing himself to them. Bob is survived by his brother Don Keiper of Gibbon NE, his sister Shirley Skow of Grand Island NE and 4 nieces and 1 nephew. Bob was also loved by an extensive “adopted” family whom all claimed him to be their “Uncle Bob”. A memorial service will held Saturday, July 26, 2014, 1:00 PM, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham WA, with The Rev. Jonathan Weldon, Rector officiating. Bob’s remains will be inurned in the Columbarium at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Denver Colorado where he will again be with the love of his life “Toots” who preceded him. In lieu of memoriam, Bob requests that you consider a donation to your local community theater or educational program for underserved youth. Bob was all about living, learning, laughing and loving!