Robert Grant Hauge
1947-1924: a loving husband and family member and an avid outdoorsman
Robert Grant Hauge, a loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend, died peacefully at home in Sebastopol on May 25, 2024, at the age of 76, having bravely battled pancreatic cancer for 16 months.
Bob was born in Redwood City, CA, on Nov. 6, 1947, raised in Marin County by his parents, Virginia Grant and Robert J Hauge, and after his father’s death, his stepfather, Everett Murphy. From them, he learned the value of family, community and hard work.
Bob graduated from San Rafael High School in 1965. From there he attended College of Marin, received his BS degree from UC Davis and graduated from UCSF’s Physical Therapy program in 1986.
Longtime residents will remember the legendary West of the Laguna that Bob opened in 1974. Along with pizza and beer, Bob introduced live music, comedy and poetry, providing the community a musical and social center. The Laguna gave first-time entertainers the opportunity to perform in an intimate venue and also hosted major acts like Kate Wolf and Nina Gerber, Dan Hicks, Robin Williamson and Dana Carvey.
Bob began a long career as a physical therapist, well-versed in many disciplines. He focused on neurotype treatment and taught both therapists and interns. He worked at a variety of locations in Santa Rosa, including North Coast Rehab and Memorial Hospital. He was highly respected by both fellow therapists and patients.
From an early age, Bob had a passion for being in nature. He became an avid outdoorsman and was happiest when he was camping, hiking, backpacking, fishing, skiing, bodysurfing or snorkeling. He spent many summers with dear friends hiking and fly fishing in the Sierra. Winters took him downhill and cross-country skiing from Lake Tahoe to his favorite, the Alta Peruvian in Utah. He found a community of skiers through the Santa Rosa Ski Club and for years served on their board, helping to plan trips nationally and abroad. With them, he skied the Dolomites in Italy.
Bob traveled to England, Scotland, Italy, Mexico and Hawaii. In Norway, he investigated his heritage. Most importantly, Bob shared his adventures with his wife of 48 years, Patty Wilkinson. Facing deep snow, trekking across frozen rivers, fording rushing streams was all part of the grand adventure for Bob.
Bob was predeceased by his father, Robert J. Hauge; mother, Virginia Murphy; stepfather, Everett Murphy and brother, Steven. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Patty Wilkinson. His extended family includes his brothers-in-law Howard (Pam Hanson) Wilkinson, John (Betsy) Wilkinson, Jerry (Sandra) Kehoe and sister-in-law, Liane Venzke; nieces Jessica (Shane McCorkle) Kehoe, Emily, Caroline and Rebecca Wilkinson; nephews Jared and Brendan Kehoe; and grand nieces Reese and Maggie McCorkle, along with many dear friends.
We will remember his kind heart, warm eyes and welcoming smile, compassion for others, and playful, easygoing nature. He will be greatly missed by all.
A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor Sunday, Nov 3, 2024, at the Sebastopol Community Cultural Center on Morris Street from 1 to 4 pm.