February 13, 1937 – April 16, 2022

Robert “Bob” Vallat passed away peacefully at the Mercer Island home he shared with his wife, Mary, for 50 years following a short illness.

Bob was born in Santa Monica and spent his early childhood in Southern California before moving to Calgary, Alberta in 1949 as his father was part of the wave of American geologists who helped start the Canadian oil business. It was in Canada that his lifelong passion for all things cars, tinkering in the garage, and skiing began.

Bob attended the University of Idaho where he earned a business degree and was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. It was during college that he first met his future wife whom he married in 1961 after they both relocated to Seattle following graduation.

He started his sales career in what was the technology sector of the era including IBM and, ultimately, Xerox where he retired after 31 years. He spent the next 14 years supporting his wife’s accounting practice as office manager until fully retiring in 2009.

Bob was active in the community being a leader in YMCA Indian Guides, Cub Scouts and the Boy Scouts. He was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church for 50 years. He served two years as a loaned executive from Xerox to United Way during their annual support campaigns. He particularly enjoyed his time with the Bellevue Breakfast Rotary where he developed many lasting friendships.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary, his son Brent (Sylvia), and his adorable grandchildren, Caroline and William, of San Francisco. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Marion Vallat, and his sister, Ann Vallat Sparks.

Bob was a friendly face to many and will be remembered most for being such a decent, nice, and selfless person. He espoused using common sense; didn’t take short cuts; was a generous supporter for causes he believed in; stepped up to help when needed; and was selfless and loyal, especially when it came to his family.

A memorial and internment followed by a reception will be held on Saturday, May 14th at 2 PM at Emmanuel Episcopal Church at 4400 86th Avenue SE on Mercer Island.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts in memory of Bob be made to the Seattle Children’s Hospital Uncompensated Care Fund.