Robert “Bob” Maurice Tilley, age 95, passed away November 24, 2020.
He was born to George and Eva (Inman) December 20, 1924 in Waterbury, Connecticut; the eldest of six children.
His life of adventures began while growing up with those siblings in several locations in the state of Maine. After graduating from high school in Camden, he joined the Coast Guard and went to Signalman school in Massachusetts. He discovered a love for Alaska while serving in the Alleutian Islands and was anxious to return after the war.
On that return trip, (on his beloved Harley) fate would take him through Butte, Montana where he met his future wife Lela Morehead. They were married on November 26, 1949 and had two children; a son Chesley and daughter Roberta.
Bob was a great machinist and used that gift working for the ACM, starting in 1949 first at the Anaconda Smelter and later at the Butte Concentrator. He retired 34 years later, in 1983; with the Company closure. After retirement, he kept busy helping many friends and neighbors with many of their household projects. He was a great handyman and always willing to lend a helping hand.
He had an adventurous life, loving Montana and everything outdoors. He envisioned himself somewhat of a “cowboy” and loved his time up in the Ruby Valley with Bill Tate and the rest of his hunting buddies.
However, his most precious time spent was with his son-in-law, Sonny. Nothing made him happier than the time they spent hiking, fishing, camping and four-wheeling together.
Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Lela, parents George and Eva, siblings: Ethel Tovet, Aubrey, Linwood, Herbert, and Richard Tilley. Also, nieces and nephews; Linda and Tom Brosovic, Tom Brosovic Jr., and Robert Goodman. Finally, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Herbert and Pearl Goodman.
Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Roberta and Ed (Sonny) Dobb, grandaughter Cassie Dobb and fiance, Mike Forsman, Butte; grandaughters Nicole, Donna, Kimberly of Colorado; nieces and nephews; Mary Kay (Wayne) Fox, Don Goodman, Bill Goodman, Debbie (K.C.) Moen, JoAnn Goodman, and cousin David (Ann) Inman.
He is also survived by good friends Bill and Bernice Tate, Jim Harris, Gina (Frank) Fleming,and Amanda(Ian) Cassidy.
Bob will be greatly missed. He was a good husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was kind, generous, an animal-lover, a helper and a story-teller.
Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
A celebration of Bob’s Life will be held July 10, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1621 Thornton Ave. in Butte, Montana. A reception will follow at Aldersgate UMC in the Fellowship Hall/gym.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Robert.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Robert and his family.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Saturday July 10, 2021
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave.
Butte, Montana 59701
Reception
Following Celebration of Life
Saturday July 10, 2021
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave.
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Saturday July 10, 2021
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave.
Butte, Montana 59701
Reception
Following Celebration of Life
Saturday July 10, 2021
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave.
Butte, Montana 59701
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Joyce Kuecks says
Sincere sympathy to Roberta, Sonny and Cassie. Cherish the memories you have for your Dad he will always live on forever. Love you guys. Ron and Joyce
Jim and Jo Anne Capp says
Roberta, We are sorry to hear of your dear father’s passing. His obituary was the example of a life well-lived. Please know that you are in our thoughts during this difficult time.