Robert Leroy Gawith

Robert Leroy Gawith: November 2, 1954 – January 2, 2026

LONGVIEW- Robert (Bob) Leroy Gawith passed away on January 2, 2026, in Longview, Washington. He was surrounded by his wife Cathy and daughter Amy and grandson Oakley and was in the presence of the Lord peacefully. His family will strive to carry on his love of Jesus, his generosity and sense of humor.

Bob was born November 2, 1954 in Salina Kansas, to Phyllis and Oakley Gawith. His older sister was Beverly, and younger brother was Barry—they were all in heaven along with his parents, to greet Bob when he arrived last week. Surviving him are nieces Janelle, Kimberly and Jennifer; a nephew, Daniel all of Salina Kansas and a nephew Darren in Buena Park, California. He also leaves behind brothers-in-law Paul and Mark, and sisters-in-law Dawn, Laurie and Julie. The other people in his life he loved like family were his dogs, who currently are, Sonje, Chloe, River and Peanut.

Bob loved being from Kelso and loved going to Kelso High School, especially anything sports related. He knew so many people from both cities it was hard to go anywhere without running into someone he knew. Bob was known to be a joker, but most of all he just loved people and wanted each person to feel like a friend. He was a joy to be around (most of the time). His other love was coaching Amy in volleyball for years, and other Wahkiakum High School kids in track, after he retired. He also played a huge role in Shekinah’s youth group for several years and served the body in many other ways as well. He was always willing to serve where needed, a true servant’s heart.

Cathy, Amy and Oakley have a huge hole in their hearts and lives losing papa, but wish to thank everyone for showing their love for him, to him in his last few weeks, it truly blessed him to see and talk to everyone.

A Celebration of Life for will be January 23rd 11 a.m. at Columbia Heights Assembly of God in Longview, WA. If you have those Kelso colors, wear them!