ROBERT “Bob” WAYNE ADAMS
Robert “Bob” Wayne Adams was born in Townsend, MT to Curtis and Pauline (Chelman) Adams on November 3, 1941. When he was two (2) he moved from White Sulpher Springs to the ranch on Horse Creek north of Rosebud, Montana. He attended grade school and high school in Rosebud, graduating in 1959. He then attended Montana State College in Bozeman where he participated in rodeo and trained his cutting horse “Sam.” When young, Robert broke and trained several ranch horses.
While attending Montana State Robert met the love of his life, Sue Dobias, at a Rodeo Club meeting. They were inseparable from that time. They were married November 19, 1961 in Cartwright, ND at St. Michaels and All Angels Episcopal Church. To that union three daughters were born, Michelle “Shelly”, Annette and Joetta.
Robert spent his life farming and ranching in the Rosebud area. In addition, he also sold Standard Chemical feed supplements for several years. As an active community member he helped organize the annual Forsyth Horse Show in June, served on the Cartersville Irrigation Board, the Rosebud School Board and was active on the Range Telephone Board from 1971 to present. While on the Range Telephone board he served as Secretary, Vice President and President of the board as well as President of the Montana Telephone Association. He also served on national rural telephone committees.
Even with working long hours and his civic duties, Robert always found time for fun. If there was live music, he was dancing with Sue. He enjoyed people and his sense of humor and wit found him at the center of most gatherings. If there was a reason to get together, he was there; whether it was meeting at someone’s house to play cards or an impromptu get together after a sporting event. He followed local sporting events long before his children were involved in them. He continued following each of his three daughters through their sports and 4-H as well as all seven of his grandchildren. Family was important to Bob and he enjoyed spending time with them.
When the girls were young, Robert decided they needed a boat and enjoyed camping with family and friends. They then built a cabin at Hell Creek on Fort Peck Lake near Jordan, MT. Many summer weekends were enjoyed at the lake in between cuttings of hay. Everyone who rode in Robert’s boat was required to ski unless they were old enough to convince him it wasn’t possible. He assured anyone he could get them up on skis and had all of his family members trained as instructors.
Keeping active was part of Bob’s life. He was a member of the Cartersville Outlaws bowling team in his younger days, then when a bit older he joined the Forsyth Country Club where he enjoyed golfing with the “afternoon” crew. He quit golfing shortly after getting a hole-in-one. Some thought he wanted to go out on top, but it was actually due to an ongoing back injury received during his rodeo days.
Many of Bob’s activities or hobbies would come and go, one that never expired was his love of hunting and collecting guns. Robert spent many hours of his youth hunting in the hills on the ranch. His Mother, Pauline, said he was always outside with his gun hunting for some type of animal. In adulthood, he continued hunting and made several pack trips with friends to the Bob Marshall Wilderness. When he got tired of cleaning and eating wild game, he simply became a target shooter and gun collector. He shot in turkey shoots, black powder shoots and then started taking his collections to gun shows. He won several awards for his collections with his most notable being the Best of Show in Reno, Nevada for his Winchester collection. He has passed his love of hunting and guns onto several of his grandchildren.
Sue especially appreciated the fact that Bob could “fix” things. He could take them apart, figure out what was wrong, and get them working again. He also made several household pieces when he was into woodworking including a desk, fireplace mantle, entertainment center and several other items the family will cherish.
Robert’s life changed immensely when he was diagnosed with hereditary polycystic kidney disease in 1998. He completed dialysis at home with Sue’s assistance and then received a kidney transplant in 2002. Unfortunately, he also inherited a heart and vascular disease that made walking difficult. These health factors prompted them to sell the ranch and build a home north of Forsyth in 2011 to move closer to town.
Robert “Bob” passed away in the early morning hours of November 5, 2015 at Billings Clinic Hospital due to complications from these heredity conditions. He was surrounded and comforted by family and friends during the week prior to his passing at age 74.
Robert was preceded in death by his mother and father, Pauline and Curtis Adams, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He is survived by his wife Sue of Forsyth, daughters Shelly (Craig) Weight of Forsyth, Annette (Mike) Thievin of Scobey, and Joetta (Merrill) Pearcy of Glendive, and grandchildren Chance, Cody and Cordell Weight, Amanda and Jared Thievin, and Bailey and Caton Pearcy.
Personal condolences to the family and remembrances of Bob may be made at stevensonsandsons.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ascension Episcopal Church in Forsyth where Robert was an active member, the National Kidney Foundation, the American Heart Association or a charity of choice.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Sunday November 8, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln.
Forsyth, MT 59327
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Monday November 9, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln.
Forsyth, MT 59327
Graveside Service
Monday November 9, 2015
Forsyth Cemetery
2804 Old Highway 10
Forsyth, MT 59327
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Sunday November 8, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln.
Forsyth, MT 59327
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Monday November 9, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln.
Forsyth, MT 59327
Graveside Service
Monday November 9, 2015
Forsyth Cemetery
2804 Old Highway 10
Forsyth, MT 59327
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Nancy Pasha says
I am so sorry to hear that Bob is no longer with us but I know he is in a much better place. He has been so strong through all his illnesses and there is a time that the body can fight no more. You and the famiy are in my prayers. Love Nancy
Beth (Petro) Brunk says
My condolences to Sue, Shelly, Annette, Joetta and families,
You guys are a great family and I know this will leave a big hole. Take care of yourselves!!
Beth Brunk and family
Rob Stephens says
Bob was such a good, well respected leader for the Range Corporation. I learned so much from by just watching him. He was a guy that when he spoke–people listened–because that is just the way it was going to be. I feel very lucky to have known him and call him a friend for many, many years. He will be sorely missed by all. The board meetings are sure going to have a different feel to them with gone. He definitely did fight the good fight. My prayers go out to his family. Rob Stephens
Geoff Feiss says
Bob introduced me to Montana 17 years ago. He embodies everything good about this State: hard work, integrity, honesty, respect and let’s not forget, good times! Bob’s departure is a huge loss for all of us. He remains a shining star in my life forever.
Jack and Carol says
We were so sorry to hear about Bob.. Our sincere sympathy goes out to his family.
Tim & Karen Green says
We are so sorry to hear of Bobs passing and our prayers for strength go out to the entire family. He fought the good fight in both his personal life and through his unwavering commitment to the employees and members of Range Telephone Cooperative, Inc. Neither his leadership, his compassion, nor his sense of humor will be forgotten.
Bobbie May says
Not only was Bob one of my dad’s great friends, but I’m proud to say over the last 15 years he has become mine as well. He always let me tease him and dished it right back. He will truly be missed. To Sue and the family, you will be in my prayers for peace and healing.
sharon cope says
To Sue and family: You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
sharon
Cathy Morris says
So very very sorry, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Dwaine & Cathy Morris
Scotty Ferguson says
A very sad day. Bob mentored a lot of us on the Range Board. Thoughts and prayers to Sue and the girls and all their families. Scotty and Judy Ferguson
Herb & Kathleen Bybee says
Thoughts and prayers to all the family at this time. We so enjoyed your visits. So loved Bob’s joy of life. He was a true western cowboy.
Barbie & Arlen Kirkaldie says
Sue and family ,
We are so very sorry to hear Of Bob’s passing . our prayers and love are with you all.
Love Barbie & Arlen Kirkaldie
Cindy Lebie says
Sue and family. I’m so sorry to hear of Robert’s passing. I have such special memories. Please know you and the girls are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cathy Byron says
Sue, Shelly and all of his family –
Bob was one of those people I assumed would live forever. What a role model he was for those fighting a battle with health issues while continuing to uphold his commitments in the community. He leaves a big footprint. Treasure the memories and the legacy he leaves behind. Prayers for all of you.
Dean Holmes says
I’ve lost one of my friends. He always had lots of advice and wonderful stories to tell. To the family he leaves behind… we pray for you.
Lois and Jim Johnstone says
Oh My …was so shocked to hear of your loss. Please accept our sympathy and if there is anything we do for you please let us know. So sorry for you and your family.
Mike Kenney & Anna Moscicki says
To so many of us, Bob was a guide, a leader, a mentor and a friend…hard to say goodbye.
Sue, we send our prayers and thoughts to you and your family. Mike and Anna
Frank Scherer - Root Construction, Inc. says
Our thoughts and prayers are extended to Sue and all the Adams family. so sorry to get the news about Bob. Our condolences to the family.
Sharon Lincoln says
Sue and family,
I am so sorry of Bob’s passing. He was such a nice fellow. He will be sorely missed. My condolences to you and your family.
The Simmons Family says
To all the family, the Simmons family send their thoughts and prayers. Smile as you remember all the wonderful memories.
Clark says
I want to offer my sincere condolences for your loss. Soon God’s will on Earth will be done. No more will there be pain or crying, no sorrowing nor any dying. For God’s word the Bible promises as much. While we await these future promise draw close to the God of Heaven, because he cares for you. (Revelation 21:3,4,5/ 1 Peter 5:7)
Peggy Redman and Earl Mortensen says
To Sue and family,
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to you in Bob’s passing. May you find comfort and strength in knowing others care. We are thinking of, and praying for you at this difficult time. May warm memories help soften your sorrow, and may faith help you face each tomorrow. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the communities of Rosebud and Forsyth.
Rita FitzGerald says
All our prayers are with the whole family. Your strong faith will see you through. So may memories of hog cooking at the lake to putting Connie’s trampoline together in the garage where the door was too small to take it out, to blowing up the yard at the ranch to get rid of the moles. When we think about Robert, we smile and that is what he would want! All our love to all of you!
Shannon (Hageman) Negaard says
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. You will all remain in our thoughts and prayers.
He will be greatly missed!
Aaron & Meredith Sopko says
I’ll never forget the leadership, direction, and support Bob afforded me over the years in his role with Range Telephone. Thank you Bob. We will miss you. Aaron and Meredith Sopko
Harriet & Veryl Jansen says
We are sending our sincere sympathy from AZ. Will be unable to attend the funeral for Bob but will be keeping you Sue and the girls in our prayers. He will be missed by all of his long time friends. Keep the faith and remember only the good times. Our thoughts & Prayers are with you all.
Paul Glenn says
I appreciate Bob’s service to the Range Family of Companies. His input and direction will be missed. Our prayers will be with his family. He is in a better place.
Toynette Rolston says
Fun, laughter, joking, teasing, people person and friend come to mind when I think of Bob Adams. He was born with them in his DNA and he lived his life sharing these gifts with friends, neighbors and strangers. Thanks for all the memories Bob and Sue.
Rob and Judy Reukauf says
Sue and Girls, We are very saddened by Bob’s passing. He was one of a kind, and I will always remember fondly our experiences in telecom activities-especially the time Bob and I had been tasked to go up to Glasgow and speak with the MITS group, and Glasgow had it’s all time record snowfall the night we were at the Cottonwood Inn. Bob and I stepped outside the next morning, and couldn’t even find the cars as they were under several feet of snow! Thank goodness for guys like Bob, and the memories they leave with us. Rob Reukauf
Lori and Ken Reierson says
To Bob’s family I am sorry of you loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Clark family says
We enjoyed Bob’s great sense of humor! He was always so helpful at any event at church. God Bless you and keep you safe . We will miss you.
Jeff Hix says
I am sad to hear of Bob’s passing. I have many great memories of Bob in Rosebud. He will be missed.
Bill and Joby Parker says
Our very deepest sympathy . You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Jill (Schwarzkoph) Venable says
So sorry to hear this news. Keeping you all in my prayers.
Gordon and Dorine Dye says
Our most heartfelt sympathy to Sue and Family. Bob was one of my “most unforgettable characters”. He was a great leader in the rural telephone industry and he was a true friend. He will be missed by all who knew him. Bob, may you rest in peace.
Doran and Sandy Hewitt says
Our deeply sympathies Sue and girls. Sending prayers of strength and comfort. Sincerely sorry for your loss.
Mike Ferguson says
Prayers and thoughts are out to the family ,sorry to hear about the passing of Robert .Robert was a good man I have many memories with him.
Tim & Pam Cox says
Sue and Family.
We are very sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Remember the good times, and the last few weeks will diminish with time. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Jody Haidle says
So many fun memories with the Adams family as a child growing up! Thinking of all of you at this difficult time. Love and prayers, Jody
Craig and Rosie Steinbach says
Sue and family:
The community will miss Bob. He was a enjoyment to be around. Sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you you at this time.
Rawlin Herigstad, DVM, PhD says
Sue and family,
Deepest condolences; I read of Bob’s passing. I was a roommate with Bob, Wildrose, and Ed Scott on S. 5th and at the yellow house on Curtis, Bozeman, 1960-61. It was a most memorable year with Bob’s love for life. I have thought often about that time of our education. May friends and family provide support and special blessing at this difficult time.
George and Mary Simpson says
So sorry to here of the passing of bob. So many good memories of the hunting trips. They will live on for ever. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Gods speed to you all. George and mary
Bob and Mary Dobias says
Sue and family. We are sorry we won’t make it to Bob’s funeral but wanted you to know our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Bob and Mary
George and Georgia Bement says
Bob will be greatly missed prayers to sue and the girls. and we will all miss him but he gave us all something to remember him by , all his knowledge on the Range Telephone Board and serving with him for many yearshe will truly be missed but no more suffering in a much better place now. He always be watching all of you and be with you in your hearts always
Sharon Kearnes says
Shelly and family. So sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Randy & Janet Stanhope says
We are so very sorry for your loss. You and yours are in our prayers.
WALT & FRAN LLOYD says
Sue and family,
I was shocked when I read of Robert’s passing. I will always remember working with him in the hayfields and he always challenged me at arm wrestling and he never won, but he was a winner. You are in my prayers and may you find comfort in God’s love.
Conrad Eklund says
I was sad to hear this news. My thoughts and prayers go out to Sue and family. I have great memories of Bob during my time with him in the telecom industry. He was a well respected leader we all looked up to and a great friend to anyone who knew him. His sharp wit and great sense of humor along with the fun times together are some of my best memories. May the family find comfort and peace through God’s grace during this difficult time.
James and June Dahle says
Sue and Family
We were sad to hear of Bobs passing. We always considered him to be a great friend and board member. Sorry we didn’t make the funeral, but we only found out of his passing today when I called Betty…. to say that I was shocked and saddened by the news is an understatement. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.