Robert Daniel "Bob" Closson, 89, of Colfax passed away on Thursday September 26, 2013 in Spokane, Washington. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday October 5, 2013 at Bruning Funeral Home in Colfax. Graveside urn committal services will follow at the Colfax Cemetery.

Bob was born on August 31, 1924 to Al & Florence (Barr) Closson in Colfax, Washington. He attended school in the Garfield area and graduated as valedictorian from Garfield High School in 1942.

He stayed in the area working with various farmers and was badly burned in a wheat field fire in 1958. Even though his injuries were severe, Bob never let that experience keep him from harvest. He kept driving truck for various farmers up until his heart attack and bypass surgery prevented him continuing.

Bob began driving bus in 1963 and was one of the "big route" drivers who had a number of routes throughout the day, often driving for a full eight hours all around the county.

He married Marilyn (Skeate) Johnson on June 18, 1979 and the couple made their home in Colfax. He was a regular cowboy and wasn't big on wearing suits and instead preferred one of his many pairs of bib overalls. He loved to garden, ride horses, and taking camping trips with friends and family. He enjoyed fishing with Marilyn on the Dworshak reservoir and took a number of trips to the west coast of Washington to partake in deep sea fishing for tuna and salmon.

Bob is survived by his wife Marilyn Closson of Spokane Valley; daughters Teresa Johnson of Spokane and Mary (Brooke) Denham of Spokane Valley; sons Chet (Laura) Johnson of Kent, Washington and Shawn (Pamela) Johnson of San Antonio, Texas and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother William "Bill" Closson and nephew Dr. Robert O. Closson, MD.

Memorial contributions in Bob's memory are suggested to the local Special Olympics program or to a local charity of your choice.