Robert Medeen Ellington, 77, died on January 26, 2006, in Burien. A lifelong resident of the Des Moines area, he was born on June 9, 1928, in Seattle.

An Army veteran of the Korean War, Bob went on to work as a graphic designer for The Boeing Company, retiring after more than 30 years of service. He designed, built and first owned the Yardarm Pub in Des Moines, and was very active in the community, especially with the Des Moines Jaycees, where he became a Senator, their highest award.

A tinker and inventor of all sorts of things, he helped design the Jaycees’ floats that ran in the Waterland Festival and Seafair. His creative energies found many different outlets, including the creation of Gus the Geoduck, the mascot of the Des Moines Jaycees. He loved spending time with family and friends in the outdoors. He loved old-time radio programs, mystery books, crossword puzzles, and was active in the Seattle Area Darts Association, where he used his talents to design tournament posters, tee shirt logos, and programs. His house was his home, and he was able to live independently up until his death.

He is survived by his two sons, Larry, Big Island, Hawaii; and Jim, Poulsbo; one sister, Lois Roberts, Des Moines; three grandchildren, Dustin, Jason and Shalee Ellington; and he was affectionately known as “Uncle Bob” to many nieces and nephews.

A Commemorative ceremony was held Saturday, February 4, at Bonney-Watson Washington Memorial, SeaTac. Memorials may be made to the Boy Scouts of America or Medic One. Please sign the online memorial at www.bonneywatson.com.