Robert Leslie King

Robert King, 78, passed peacefully in Great Falls, Montana on February 27, 2024.

Bob is survived by his wife of 47 years, Barbara King; three children; four grandchildren; and younger sister. Oldest son, Jacob and wife, Dani King; granddaughter, Olivia King; and grandson, Cohen King; son, Caleb and his wife, Savannah King and granddaughter, Remi King; daughter, Jessica Lee and granddaughter, Greta Lee; and sister, Joy Luther.

Bob was born in Colusa, California and grew up in Fairfield, California. Moving to Gridley, Bob met his future wife while riding in the town parade. "Thank God I'm a country boy!" he shouted as he tipped his hat at Barbara for the first time. They married on August 22, 1976, and raised their children in Gridley, California and at the ranch in Biggs, California.

Throughout his life, Bob was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed endurance riding, team pinning, trail riding, hunting, and fishing. As a part of the Master Trail Riders for over 30 years, Bob happily served food as service chairman and even served as President at one point. He enjoyed duck and pheasant hunting as a member of the Last Chance Gun Club for many years.

Bob would often toast to the day, "There is no better place on Earth to be." This passion for living life to the fullest was shared with his children, grandchildren, friends, and anyone else fortunate enough to be around him. As an extension, Bob opened his ranch to everyone. No invitation was needed for a lesson on how to shoot, how to use a duck call, a warm meal, or a day full of jokes, laughter, and happiness.

"All are welcome." A true testament and example of what family and friendship looks like; he instilled in his children. As a father, he took the time to teach valuable life skills, helped his children through lessons of life, and was always a phone call away for anyone who needed help. He was always present for games, competitions, and events. He was the father on the sidelines cheering for every kid he knew, not just his own.

As a husband, Bob and Barbara enjoyed traveling with friends to Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada, and all over the United States. The treasured memories of holding iguanas, riding camels, zip-lining (even with his dislike of heights) and exploring the wonders of the world. They joined dance classes, enjoyed sporting events (his favorite teams being the Giants and 49ers), and often attended community functions. Food, drink, and friendship were always at the center of the excitement.

When they retired to Montana, Bob was happy to live in the peace and quiet of the country. They enjoyed spending time at the rodeo in Red Bluff throughout the years and continued to enjoy the rodeo life in Belt and Great Falls. A cowboy soul made his way home to cowboy country.

Bob has always been known for his wit, jokes, singing, cowboy poetry, and could always be found with a book. His love for cooking and baking was nothing short of an artform. "Just earning my keep" or "If you don't like it, I can always make you a peanut butter and jelly sandwich" were offered with every meal. If you were lucky enough to have his biscuits and gravy, you know very well you were never eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

There are many stories of the man who was a great husband, the best father/grandfather, and the dearest of friends. The end of his life is the beginning of his time with the Lord. Along with his love of family and friends, Bob always found comfort in his faith in God. The love that his life created is immeasurable. His oldest son carries his passion for the outdoors and hunting like no other, his second son carries his patience and fierce love of family, and his daughter carries the loyalty and strength of a man that will be dearly missed.

A good way to remember Bob King is with one of his favorite sayings: "It's a wonderful life, don't buckle."