Robert G. Jolley

Robert Gary Jolley Born in Billings on August 24, 1942, passed away February 20, 2025.

As a 5th Generation Montanan, he grew up hunting and fishing, never losing his love for the outdoors. He was one of the rare last true outdoorsmen. Bob, at the age of 22, took off by himself and rode his horse through a good majority of Beartooth wilderness, no cell phones, no GPS, just him his horse and rations. Hunting, Fishing and the outdoors were second nature to him and not just for that social media like on a post. this was his way of life, and he loved it without needing any validation.

In 1973, he met the love of his life, Madeleine Jill Jolley, and they shared a wonderful 37 years together, before her passing in 2010. Together they had a son (Josh) that they passed their love of the outdoors to and enjoyed many adventures with.

Bob’s adventures did not end with the outdoors. He began his journey into custom knife making in 1977, which in time became his life profession and passion. He was well respected as a custom knife maker and was even commissioned by the Buffalo Bill Historical Center to make a replica of the John Johnston (Liver Eatin’ Johnson) Bowie knife. He proudly mentored his son Josh in this trade and Josh proudly carries this trade on with him until the day his hands cannot allow him to craft a knife. 

Bob is definitely scouting new hunting spots and reuniting with those who went before him. No doubt enjoying the campfire with his love Madeleine, good friends Jim Larkin & Les Hausauer.

Dad, keep the fire burning and have a glass of bourbon ready for when we follow you there!

He is survived by his son, Josh Jolley (Michelle), daughter Kristine Weisz and daughters Kari Benjamin, Lisa Fenchel, and Shelly Vandyken.

 Private services will be held. 

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