Friends and family are mourning the loss of an active member of the Dawson County community who died last week.

Robert "Bob" Couch, a resident of Dawsonville for the past nine years, will be remembered for his good nature and big smile, according to some of those who knew him the longest.

"He was just an all-around great person," said Glenda Ferguson, chair of Dawson County's board of elections and voting. "He was always smiling and always willing to help with anything we needed."

Among his many community contributions, Couch, 73, served for many years as a poll worker at the central elections precinct.

Calvin Byrd, city councilman and KARE for Kids president, said Couch's passing was unexpected.

"He was involved with KARE for a long time. He actually designed our first T-shirt," Byrd said. "He was at our annual meeting two or three days before he passed, so it was just a big shock. He'll be greatly missed."

Couch also served as vice president of Veterans Affairs of Dawson County.

"He gave 100 percent," said Pam Hamalainen, the organization's president. "He loved the Veterans Affairs and loved being involved in it. His favorite part was on Veterans Day when he got to dress up like George Washington for the unwavering line."

Hamalainen added that Couch was someone "who's going to be missed for a very long time."

President Linda Williams said Couch, in his role as an ambassador for the local chamber of commerce, was the perfect liaison for the community.

"He was always just so pleasant and upbeat," Williams said. "We've really enjoyed his friendship here.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family because, in a way, we feel like he was part of our family as well."

A member of Liberty Baptist Church, Couch was also an avid collector of model railroads and enjoyed war re-enactments.

Immediate survivors include: His wife, Inez Couch of Dawsonville; sons and daughters-in-law, Robb and Sheri Couch and Terry and Lisa Couch, all of Orlando, Fla.; and two grandchildren.

Memorial services were held Sept. 17 at the Bearden Funeral Home Chapel.

Donations can be made to Veterans Affairs of Dawson County, 200 Kathy Lane, Dawsonville, GA 30534.