Robert Lee Bird “Bob” passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2020, at his home with his wife Jackie at his side. Bob had been bravely battling cancer since 2004.
Bob was born September 23. 1939, in Kalispell, Montana, to George B. and Wilma F. (Harrington) Bird. He grew up in the Flathead area enjoying hunting and fishing with his dad, Uncle Pete and Aunt May. He graduated from Kalispell High School in 1959.
In 1963, Bob married Barbara Linendoll. They were joined by sons, Bryan Lee in 1966 and Robert Leslie in 1971. They later divorced.
Bob and Jackie (Flom- Vetter) married in 1981, adding Cheryl E. Vetter (born in 1968) and B. Bradley Vetter (born in 1971) to the family.
The Montana Army National Guard filled Bob’s interest for 34 years. He worked as a mechanic at the OMS #7 in Chinook, the CSMS in Helena, then back to OMS #7 in Chinook—this time as Shop Chief—and ended his civil service career at OMS #1 in Kalispell. Prior to his civil service, Bob also worked at the aluminum plant in Columbia Falls for several years and for the Forest Service, which he thoroughly enjoyed.
Missing flat land and family, Jackie wanted to come home. So, Nashua was home from 1997 up to 2003, when they purchased a home in the military community of the village of Saint Marie, Montana. Bob remained there until his death.
Bob enjoyed working in his yard, always planting roses at every location they lived. He also enjoyed country music and concerts, senior bus trips, was a fan of Richard Petty of NASCAR, Don Sula of the Dolphins, and particularly basketball’s greatest 3-pointer Larry Bird, from a distant branch of the family tree.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Jackie; sons Bryan (Tracey Thennis) Bird, Rob (Lisa Kallio) Bird and three grandchildren, all of Helena. He will also be missed by step-daughter Cheryl Friede of Havre and step-son B. Brad (Tanya) Vetter of Johnstown, Colorado and three step-grandchildren.
Memorials may be sent in Bob’s name to HOPE Project, Warriors on the Water, or a charity of your choice.
Services will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, September 21, 2020 at Bell Mortuary with Pastor Todd Wright officiating. A reception will follow at the VFW Post #3107 in Glasgow, Montana. Condolences may be left for the family at bellmortuarymontana.com
Rick and Bea Stellflug says
Jackie and family, we are sorry for your loss. He was a great man who loved his family and friends. No more pain for Bob. May God wrap his loving arms around you and grant you peace!
Carol & Larry Buchheit says
We will miss seeing Bob with Jackie about town. With smiles, welcoming arms and interest in others. And a friendship history with Bob and Jan. May Bob truly rest in peace.
Jim and Paula Keeler says
We are so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. He was a good friend when I started working in Havre and I needed a lot of help and a lot of friends because I spent a lot of time confused. Bob, Ham, Jim and Jay taught me a lot.
Jay Glenn says
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Prayers for his family. We spent a lot of time together in the National Gard.
James Carver says
Sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Bob was the motor sergeant keeping the equipment rolling for many years. Many memories from the Trp C Malta and Glasgow unit.
Ed and Sandi Mason says
So sorry for your loss, Bob was a special man and will be missed.
Ray & Barb Baum says
Jackie, We are sorry to hear of Bob’s passing, please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.