It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Robert “Rob” D. Denney, 86, of Elma. Rob unexpectedly passed June 4, 2025, at Capital Medical Center after a sudden illness.
Rob was born in Seymour, Missouri, Sept. 18, 1938, to Gordon and Birdie Marie (Townlian) Denney. In 1942, the family settled in Lebam, where Rob spent his childhood and completed his education.
Following graduation, Rob joined the U.S. Army, completed the rigorous Basic Airborne Course (Jump School), and proudly served as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. After the conclusion of his enlistment, he returned to Lebam in 1963.
In 1964, Rob married Laura Israelson of Pe Ell. Together they built a full and meaningful life in Pe Ell, raising their two daughters, Danita and Angie, and operating several businesses including the Pe Ell Shake Mill and Tacoma Electric Supply Co.
Rob was always making memories with his family and friends-whether bowling, cheering on horses at the track, or exploring the outdoors. He deeply loved time with his daughters and proudly embraced the role of grandfather with humor and heart.
Later, Rob moved to Elma with his longtime companion, Donna, to be closer to his mom and sister.
He will be remembered for his great hair, unconditional love, quiet strength, unending generosity, and his unmistakable ability to bring joy and laughter wherever he went.
Rob was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Birdie Marie (Townlian) Denney; his companion, Donna Bononcini; his grandson, Tivon Hanson; his brother-in-law, Ken Adamson; his in-laws, Edward and Patricia Israelson; and many other loved ones.
He is survived by his daughters, Danita Oster of Winlock and Angie Denney of Chehalis; their mother, Laura Denney of Chehalis; his sister, Winda Lou Adamson, and brother-in-law, Clark McNutt, of Elma; and his son-in-law, David (Alta) Dailey of Adna.
Rob leaves behind a proud legacy through his eight grandchildren: Josh (Sonja) Oster, Becca (Emmett) Leigh, Robbie (Hannah) Dailey, Tyler (Sierra) Dailey, Alyssa (Harold) Lusk, Brittany (Sydney) Snyder, and Colin (Kristyna) Hanson; and nine great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him endless joy and pride.
Rob also leaves behind many adored nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Service Details:
A graveside service will be held at Fern Hill Cemetery, Menlo, Washington, on Saturday, July 12, at 11 a.m.
A celebration of life will immediately follow at the Adna Grange, Adna, Washington.
