Robert Michael Doolittle passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Dec. 7 at the age of 76. Born in Glendale, CA., he resided in Marin for over 50 years. He graduated from Marin Catholic in ’57, and soon thereafter married his high school sweetheart, Kathy. He was a loving husband for 56 years and devoted father. He is survived by Kathy, his sons Dennis (Karen), James (Terese), Christopher, daughter Mary Ann (Jim Hayes), daughter-in- law Beth, and his good friend and cousin Ed Illig. He was very proud of and found incredible joy in his 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
His work ethic was unsurpassed. He retired after 40 years as a painting contractor, with many loyal customers. He considered himself blessed to be able to build a family cabin at Lake Almanor where he took great joy in sharing many laughs and making many memories with family and friends. He shared his love for fishing and the outdoors, and made many trips backpacking and hunting over the years. More recently, it was his golfing buddies who provided much laughter and joy.
Mike never did anything in half measures. He made beautiful hunting knives for many years. A passion for running led him to race in the Quadruple Dipsea, the Boston Marathon, the Western States 100 miler, and the Leadville 100, to name only a few.
His faith was unwavering and his generosity unlimited. He read many inspirational books of conversions and lives of saints. He was quick to share copies and deem them “the best book I ever read”, of which there are at least 50 different titles.
Mike has been an Our Lady of Loretto parishioner since 1965. His devotion to the Blessed Mother and her Son was an inspiration to many. He will be lovingly remembered as a kind- hearted man whose life was defined by his faith, humility, and generosity.
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