Robert Douglas Gaston

Robert Douglas Gaston passed away March 8, 2012 with his 3 sons at his side. He was 62 years old. Bob was born in Boise Idaho in 1949 to parents Douglas and Marjorie Gaston. Bob's father was in the Air Force and was stationed in the Territory of Alaska near Fairbanks. This may be where Bob kindled his love for music. Many evenings were spent with his father playing the guitar and both parents loved to sing. In 1954 Bob's father died. Bob, his mother, and sister Teri relocated in the Milwaukie, Oregon area. In 1957 the family moved to Scappoose when his mother married Norman Nichols. Bob grew up on a small farm in Scappoose. He was active in 4-H, Pep Band, Spanish Club and enjoyed studies of mathematics, science, and music. He played Piano, Guitar, Clarinet, and Saxophone through high school and started playing in bands in his teens. Graduating from Scappoose High School in 1967. Bob went to Oregon State University for two years. He started a family after his marriage to Larene Powell. After Mathew was born the family moved back to the St. Helens area. Bob worked at Multnomah Plywood. As their family grew larger with the arrivals of Vincent and Eric they bought a home in Columbia City. After the separation from his wife Bob spent the next several years of his life transitioning. He loved the outdoors where he spent time trapping, hunting, fishing, and spending time at the family property in Winlock, Oregon. Bob furthered his education and received his Associates Degree in Computer Sciences. In 1996 he began the greatest and final chapter of his life. He married Gretchen " G" Graham and began his career at Intel. Bob had a successful career at Intel; he participated in changing the world on the development team. With Gretchen's love of theatre and Bob's love of music they both were involved in the Shoe String Community Players. As a musician he transitioned from rock n roll to orchestra and Jazz. Bob is survived by his three sons; Matthew Staci, Vincent Kate and Eric Sam. step-children; Jeremy and Anneliese, nine grandchildren. Siblings; Teri Manker, Lisa Lewis and Alan Nichols. He was preceded in death by his wife Gretchen and parents, Douglas Gaston and Marjorie Nichols. A celebration of life will be held at 3 P.M. on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at Columbia City Community Center. On-line condolences can be made at www.columbiafh.com Columbia Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Robert Douglas Gaston

April 5, 1949 - March 8, 2012