In Loving Memory of Robert Bradley
Robert 'Bob" Bradley, born October 11th 1926 in Willamette Oregon passed away Tuesday August 4th 2022 in Wilsonville surrounded by his loving wife of 74 years Dorothy and his children Rick Bradley and Linda Wing.
Bob graduated from High School in 1944 and began his career for Safeway. A few months later he was drafted into the Army during World War II. Bob served in both Manila Philippines and Hiroshima Japan during his deployment – he was honorably discharged as a Quarter Master of the 24th division. When he returned stateside he devote his life to what would become the 2 pillars of his life, Safeway and Dorothy Benz.
While out on a walk Bob would later say – I saw the most beautiful girl through the window and knew she was the one for me, and so on a simple day like any other, Bob met the love of his life Dorothy. And in a small ceremony on December 31st 1948 they married. Together they built a happy life – Bob would go on to rise through the ranks and thrive as a Safeway store manager all over the Portland Metro area and then in Astoria. In 1949 they welcomed a son Ricky Lynn and in 1956 a daughter Linda Louise. Bob continued to toil away at Safeway, golfing on the weekend – a lifelong passion he shared with his brothers Les and Dale. Bob would continue to golf to the age of 90!
Bob was deeply rooted in the communities he served - volunteering with rotary and on the board of the Mt Hood Community College, Clatsop Community College and the Safeway Credit Union. Bob retired in 1986 and bought a home in Oregon City with a large lot for another passion Bob and Dorothy shared together in retirement gardening. Over the years they planted and made use of the land in many ways, first planting potatoes, then a huge pumpkin patch for their grandkids and finally planting hundreds of Dahlia bulbs every year and then digging each bulb back up to store in crates in their garage each fall to keep safe from the Oregon cold winters. Their garden was a splendor, a labor of love. They both knew the names of each beautiful flower in the garden, this hobby kept them active and young. His favorite dahlia was 'First Prize' a pink and yellow flower like a transcendent sunset. These often adorned their tables and counters in the summer months when the garden was in full bloom.
Robert is survived by his wife Dorothy, his son Rick and his wife Deborah, his daughter Linda her husband Mitch. Six grandchildren Rick John (Kim), Richelle (Jeff), Devon, Stacy (Daniel), Kelly (Craig) and Kyle and 8 great granddaughters Cassie (Andrew), Allie, Payton, Mattie, Brenna, Anna, Clara and Penelope. His sister Sandra Kaufman and his brother Dale Bradley.
You are loved
You are missed
When we meet again I hope to find you as I remember you best, in a cozy cashmere sweater.