Robert Norman “Bob” Knowlen passed away on February 12, 2025, in Port Townsend. He was born to Raymond and Lola Knowlen on November 10, 1953, in Port Townsend.
Known for his light-hearted wisecracking and funny stories, Bob spread good cheer wherever he went. His big smile quickly made him many friends. Those who knew him best will miss him the most, including professional firefighters, U.S. Navy buddies, home health care clients, mountain backpackers, sailboat racers, and his PTHS Class of 1972.
Public service became his life from the time he left high school and joined the U.S. Navy. As many U.S. veterans know, some days bring more adventure than expected.
This happened to Bob on April 29, 1975, when a routine training cruise aboard the U.S. Navy carrier Hancock turned into chaos as Saigon fell to North Vietnamese forces. Scores of helicopters carrying endangered refugees swarmed the carrier. As the deck became overcrowded with aircraft, the captain ordered excess helicopters to be pushed overboard. Bob was one of the sailors seen in historic photos tipping helicopters off the deck into the ocean.
The firefighting skills Bob learned in the Navy served him well in his career as a professional firefighter. His firefighting career included years at the firehouse in Alameda, CA, and 24 years in Bellevue, WA. His EMS training carried over into his post-retirement occupation as a home health care provider. A compassionate man, he was a natural fit for this line of work.
After retiring from Bellevue Fire in 2007, Bob spent several years enjoying life in the southern Philippines, where he met Josephine, who later became his wife. He felt lucky when Josephine’s extended Filipino family welcomed him into their hearts. He loved and was loved by them, once saying they treated him like a rock star. He also enjoyed motorcycle riding with his club there.
Bob is survived by Josephine, his wife of 10 years. She brought him happiness and was the perfect traveling companion, always ready to hop on a jet, his Harley, or whatever was going somewhere. He will be deeply missed by his sisters Ellen and Linda, his brother Kris Blais, his children Clark (Jessica) and Michelle, his two grandchildren, Jasper & Julia, his nephew Kristian Blais, and most of all, his beloved wife, Josephine.
