Wrangell Sentinel -

Robert (Rob or Robbie) Allan Seimears, 59, passed away on March 2, 2013.

He was born December 27, 1953. He was proud to be a sailor. 

He started his boating career at 14, working the river boats with his Grandpa, Al Ritchie. He loved running the Stikine River in his youth and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who broke down, letting them use a spare prop or shear pin, teaching newcomers how to “read” the water to find the channel. He started working at the mill at age 17 pulling on the green chain but by the end of his career there, was running boom boats. Next he worked at Campbell Towing starting as a deckhand and finishing up there as an engineer. When the timber industry took a dive, he started working for the Alaska Marine Highway. He was well-liked and known to be a hard worker. When passengers asked where the ferry was on its journey, they were always referred to Rob, because he knew the waters so well. He loved the outdoors, boating, hunting and fishing. His unique wit and sense of humor made everyone smile. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Brett, Erika, Casey and Cooper; granddaughters Ema, Madison, Sydney and Charlee; parents Bob and Margaret Seimears; brother, Mark and sister Gail Ottesen; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Rob preferred not to have a public service. There will be a family Celebration of Life this summer.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Mariner’s Memorial planned for Heritage Harbor.