MANSFIELD, Robert James

Robert James Mansfield was born on January 10, 1954, in Queens, New York, to Florence and Gerald Xavier Mansfield. He died September 10, 2014, at home in Pendleton, Ore., at the age of 60. He was raised in Commack on Long Island, came west to attend the College of the Redwoods in Northern California, and worked in the woods of the Northwest for many years as a forester. He returned to school at the University of Montana in Missoula, Mont., and obtained a BA in education. He later earned his MA at Eastern Washington. In 1995 Bob moved to Pendleton. He taught at Clara Brownell Middle School in Umatilla, Sandstone Middle School in Hermiston, and at McNary Elementary in Umatilla. While still at Sandstone in 2008, he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, an incurable form of cancer. After retiring in 2010, he became a Master Gardener, dabbled in fly-fishing, and flirted with the ukulele. Bob is survived by his life companion of 26 years, Jean Guidry, by his daughter Autumn Rose Mansfield, stepdaughter Aurora Martin, and stepson Solomon Martin. In addition, he is survived by his mother, two older brothers, two younger sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews who adored him. He was preceded in death by his father. In life he was dedicated to learning and laughter. As a teacher, his mission was to bring science into everyday life and make it fun. He led students into smashing pumpkins with catapults to teach physics, planting willows to protect the banks of the Umatilla River, and releasing baby trout into the river. He was considerate, loving and generous in every way. Death left a huge hole in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. However, the twinkle of his eyes is not gone but has simply relocated. Look for it all around you. A nondenominational memorial service will be held in Hermiston at Sandstone Middle School on Saturday, September 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. Former students are particularly invited. Bring memories that you would like to share. Online condolences may be sent to www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com. If you wish to commemorate Bob’s passing, consider supporting myeloma research at the International Myeloma Foundation or supporting music/arts education at the Playing for Change Foundation. Donations may be made by mailing a check made out to your choice of foundations to Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 543, Halfway, OR 97834. tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com Sept 2014