By Tammi Pitzen, Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Jackson County

On June 2, 2018 a great supporter of the Children’s Advocacy Center and the children we serve, left this life.  Robert Blair Doolen passed away at home with family by his side.

Bob was born Sept. 27, 1939 in Aurora, Illinois to Helen Blair Doolen and Harold Morris Doolen, Sr. The family moved to Billings, in 1941. Bob graduated from Billings Senior High School in 1957. He attended the University of Minnesota where he earned a Bachelor of Science with Distinction in 1961 and a Master of Science in 1963. 

Bob was devoted to his wife Karen.  They were together for a life time.  Literally.  They met in high school.  It was beautiful to see them together. 

Bob volunteered his time and knowledge to the CAC, helping to create some of our policies and guiding us through setting up an avenue to receive donations of stocks and investments, but even beyond that, he was an Ambassador for our agency.  It was not uncommon for Bob and his wife Karen, who serves on our Advisory Council, to bring their friends to events sponsored by the CAC or to bring them to the CAC for a tour and to learn more about our services.

The CAC was not the only benefactor of Bob’s talent, time and treasure.  The Holly Theatre, the Asante Foundation, the YMCA in Billings Montana, the First Presbyterian Church in Medford, the Rotary, the Medford Budget Committee and the Medford Hospital Facilities Board, in addition to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Jackson County, all received the benefit of Bob’s generosity, kindness and talents.

We will miss Bob.  His gentle spirit.  His never-ending generosity and loyalty.  His friendly smile.  His willingness to always help.  His attention to details.  His guidance. 

As a new Executive Director four or so years ago, I remember being very thankful to have such a wonderful man and his lovely wife Karen helping me to find my footing.  Now looking back, it is amazing the thousands of kids that have been impacted by this gentle, friendly, unassuming man.  His work helped them find safety.  His work helped them find their voice.  His work helped build community.  His work helped to restore good health for many. 

He has left a legacy of health, happiness and safety for many of the children in our community.  THANK YOU.  And thank you, Karen, for sharing him with our community and for bringing him with you when you joined the Children’s Advocacy Center family.