Robert Thomas “Bob” Chapweske came into the world on Friday, April 14th, 1946. He was born in Fargo, ND, (a day after his mother’s birthday), the third of four children born to Kathryn (Kay) Falconer Chapweske and John Chapweske.
Bob served in the United States Army as a Spec 4 for two years. It was an opportunity to travel to Germany that he would not have had otherwise-because of his wisdom, stories and encouragement, he was so proud when his grandson, Hunter enlisted in the Army National Guard as Military Police and have a career in Law Enforcement. Through the same wisdom and encouragement, his granddaughter, Shelby became a CNA and will further her education to become an RN. Even though they are undecided about their life’s course, Bob also encouraged and supported Colton and Shyanne to pursue their dreams and do what makes them happy if they work hard and are dependable, he told them the sky’s the limit.
He attended Sacred Heart School, graduating in 1965. He married Kathy Watts on October 5th, 1968. Over the years Bob worked for Gamble Robinson, Beacon Carter, United Beverage and was a Special Deputy, Civil Enforcement Officer and Jailer at the Custer County Sheriff’s Office for 18 years-he worked until his health forced him to resign. No matter where he was employed, Bob went above and beyond, making each day better than the last. His strength and tenacity continued while he was at home, as he was always busy doing something around the house or working in his yard. There were many parties in his brother Jack’s patio and at his sister Sharon’s and the family would make frequent road trips to continue the tradition after her family moved to Glendive, only this time they had pool parties!
Bob’s strength and tenacity were also reflected when his health began to decline in 2011. He amazed all his Doctors both in Miles City and Billings by surviving so long with his multitude of health problems. He survived so long for his wife (just so he could win the argument and have the last word) and for his two grandson’s and two granddaughters, who were his world. Bob’s personality commanded respect; he was a hard-ass, except where his grandkids were concerned then was a big softie. Bob loved all the Grandkids the same and was just as hard on one as the other. He loved them so much that he didn’t want them to experience the hard life lessons that he did (and there were A LOT)! His grandchildren felt the same way about their “Gramps” as they would all be by his bedside every time when he was hospitalized whether it was in Miles City or Billings. This continued into his final days as they wouldn’t leave their Gramps side for very long. True to form, Bob managed to stay with his family a week longer than he was expected to and was able to enjoy ice cream cake from DQ for his 72nd Birthday. His younger brother Gerald recalls, that their sister Sharon lovingly referred to her brother as a “little shit” even just recently a few days before he died.
He chose to leave this world for the next on Friday, April 20th, 2018, completing his circle of life and join his Mom & Dad, brother Jack, brother-in-law Larry Wilson (who was more like another brother), and mother and father-in law Vava and Tom Watts.
Family that will miss Bob until they meet again are his wife (and honorary nurse) of nearly 50 years, Kathy; His oldest daughter Kay Nice, an RN, Sidney, MT who was fortunate enough to care for her dad most of the last 7 years, although having a personality much like her dad’s, this was interesting and somewhat entertaining (not for Kathy who witnessed these interactions); His youngest daughter, Sherry May, Miles City, who frequently checked in on her dad and was there when Kay couldn’t be; his heart and joy, his grandchildren Shelby Burman, Hysham, MT; Colton Burman, Miles City; Hunter Nice and Shyanne Nice both of Sidney; his son-in-law, Dennis, also from Sidney, (who with Hunter, built a deck on the front of the house last year so Bob could spend time outside, which he loved); his older sister Sharon Wilson, Glendive, MT and younger brother Gerald, Fargo, ND, who was able to spend Bob’s last Birthday with him and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Also lost without his presence are his dogs Bear (who would sing “Wyatt Earp” to his dad) and Sadie. Some of Bob’s last words were “We’ll all see each other again”.
Bob’s family would like to personally thank every one of you for being prayer warriors throughout the past seven years and for all the messages, calls and texts. There have been so many that we apologize that we can’t answer each one individually but know that your kind words and memories have comforted us and made us laugh through our tears. We love you!
*It is important to know that Bob and Kathy prearranged their final wishes in 2016. This act of love has eased the burden of his loss, so consider giving this gift to your family.
Military graveside services will be held on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at the Eastern Montana State Veteran’s Cemetery with full military honors. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors
1:00 p.m.
Friday May 4, 2018
Eastern Montana State Veteran's Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors
1:00 p.m.
Friday May 4, 2018
Eastern Montana State Veteran's Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Martha Crandall says
Bob put up a heck of a fight. My sympathy.
Rose says
RIP Bob, Prayers to my Dearest friend Kathy & Thoughts & Prayers to his friend & families.
Diane Welbes says
You are all in my thoughts and Prayers.
Sandi and Jim Updyke says
Kathy and family, My heart is filled with more sadness at the passing of such a wonderful man. Bob and Kathy have a very special place in my heart. I hope your memories of all the happy times with Bob will help you get through this most difficult time. Knowing he is at peace and free of pain should be a comfort. May God bless you all ?❤️
Sherri Schneidt says
You all have been a part of my life for 40 yrs. and my heart breaks for you but I know Bob was ready to be free of pain. He’s been through so much in the past 6 yrs and his strength amazed me. He will always have a special place in my heart. You are like family and I’m here if you need anything.
Kathy Strub says
Kathy Shelb and Colton and Family our sympathies to you all. Sending prayers and comfort and BIG BIG ((HUGS))
Tom and Kathy Strub
Sandy McFarland-Hays says
Kathy, So sorry to read about Bob passing. You and your family are in my prayers.
Maureen Larson says
Kathy, so sorry to see this. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family will be said. May your memories give you comfort during this difficult time.
CarleneRoot says
Kathy, So sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Carlene Aastrom Root.
Carol Schneider says
Kathy and family, Knowing that Bob is now pain free and flying with the angels should give you some comfort but I know you and your family will miss him very much. Oh the memories of you two dating and so much in love are the memories I will carry forever. May God give you all comfort in the weeks and months to come.
Ron and Connie Watts says
Kathy and family, So very sorry for your loss. Such a long, weary struggle! We will keep you in our hearts and our prayers. May God wrap his loving arms around you at this time.
Kristy Green says
Kathy and family. So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Best neighbors a person could ask for.
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
My sincere sympathy to you, Kathy and all your loved ones. The fight is over for Bob and you will miss him terribly, so keep the memories flowing and know that many, many people are Keeping you all in their hearts.
Laura Monasmith says
Kathy, our prayers are with you and we know that God is holding you in His arms during this time.
Casey & Cindy Phalen says
Thinking of you all. God love ya
Joe and Cathi Peila says
To all of Bob’s family our sympathies,thoughts and prayers.
Teeny (Wells) McMunn says
I believe I was in junior high, maybe a freshman when Bob and I were penpals, back when there was no internet, just letters but I remember having to send the letters air mail. Bob was in the army (?) then and stationed in Germany. It was exciting to write to someone in the services, but when he came home, I think that was the end of it;) I’m sorry for your loss. Its never easy.
Gene and Sue Cranford says
Kathy and Family – We are so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Gene and Sue Cranford
Shorty&Judy Brush says
Kathy and Family So Sorry for your loss Praying for God To give you and your family the Strength now and in the days to come his memories will live on for ever RIP Bob
Nancy Volz says
Kathy, Kay and Sherry, and families, we are so sorry for your loss. Keep the great memories flowing and remember the great guy you loved. Praying God gives you strength and comfort. Your are all in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Bob.
Love, the Volz family
Dale & Cindy Berg says
Kathy and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
May you find comfort in all your wonderful memories. God Bless.
Dianne Webster says
Kathy & family, I was sorry to hear of Bob’s passing; he put up a valiant fight as long as he could. May your memories sustain you in the coming days & weeks, remember the good times & find peace. RIP, Bob
Mick and sandy gapay says
Bob and I attended high school together.
He was always a kinds and gentle soul.
Rest I peace and be with god.
Wayne holmlund says
Sorry for your loss. Bob and I worked together at United for many years and I enjoyed all the time he spent with me at the shop having coffee. We will not be available Friday but our thoughts will be with you. He is in a better place without any pain
Ervin and Janice Laib says
Kathy and family Sorry for your loss Prayers for all of you Bob will be missed
Barb Shields and Rick Shields says
Our thoughts & love are with you.
Jessica Driskell says
While it’s been a number of years since I’ve spoken with Bob, he was always such a considerate guy and would always give me a good chuckle. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing.
Jack Hanson says
He was a kind and considerate classmate. Rest in peace Bob.