Robert E. Vandervort

Robert Edward Vandervort, age 85, passed away Tuesday, January 28, 2025, with his loving family by his side.

Bob was born on January 15, 1940, in Livingston, Montana, to Harold Sloan Vandervort and Bernice Alice Burchett. He was one of six in a large family which included one brother, Don, and four sisters: Betty, Jane, Lona, and Sheila.

He attended Livingston schools and graduated from Park High School in 1958. During his time at Park High, he was an excellent basketball player, leading him to be selected to both All-State and All-American honors and earning him a scholarship to Montana State University.

He married the love of his life Barbara Rae Adams on September 17, 1964, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Livingston. The two shared many years and three wonderful children together- Robert Michael, LeRae Ann, and Chandra Lee.

During their marriage, Bob worked primarily as a machinist for the Burlington Northern Railroad, retiring in 1991. He also painted many houses in Livingston, initially with his father and later involving his son.

Mostly, though, Bob was a family man. He was a wonderful and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather. He loved his wife deeply and always had a hold of her hand. If the two were to part, even for just a short moment, they never left each other’s side without sneaking a kiss. He served his children in the best way possible. He coached little league basketball and baseball during their younger years, enjoyed taking them fishing, and taught them that family is the best and most important part of life.

After his retirement in 1991, his grandchildren became his world. He spent the summers of their younger years babysitting daily, always taking them on bike rides to the Pop Stand for a famous huckleberry shake and cheese curds. As they became involved in school activities, he became their biggest fan. Whether it was a sporting event- or even just a practice or camp-, a band or choir concert, a program, or an awards ceremony, Papa was always there. He was a light in all their lives and gave them many memories that they’ll forever cherish.

In recent years, his great-grandchildren gave him the greatest joy. The music lover he was, he enjoyed playing them the oldies, whistling along, watching them sing and dance. He also enjoyed feeding them all the chocolate and ice cream they could desire.

Bob was also a man of many talents. He was a terrific artist. His paintings and drawings not only decorated his home and the homes of his loved ones, but also the beloved town of Livingston. His works include the train painted on the side of the Burlington Northern Railroad, signs seen around Sacajawea Park, and numerous holiday creations. He was also an impressive musician. He was able to pick up a tune and play it just by listening to it and was talented on both the guitar and harmonica. He was always singing, whistling, or humming a tune. For many years, he participated in the choir at the Redeemer Lutheran Church. Further, he enjoyed woodworking. He made many knives throughout his life and even helped design the gazebo in Sacajawea Park which many have come to enjoy. Arguably, however, his greatest work of art was the home in which he designed and built himself. He loved and lived in that home for 50 years.

Bob was truly a one in a million man. He was kind, loving, and funny. Those around town could always count on him for a warm smile and a tootsie roll. He loved his people with all his might and our hearts are forever grateful that he was ours and we were his. He was so deeply loved and will be equally missed.

Bob is preceded in death by his father, Harold, his mother, Bernice, and his brother Don.

He is survived by his beautiful wife of 60 years, Barbara, children Robert (Shelly) Vandervort, LeRae (Larry) Davis, Chandra (Jon) Willyerd, grandchildren Cole (Erica) Vandervort, Rachel Vandervort, Haley Vandervort, Graci Vandervort, Jasmine (Truman) Thompson, Holly Davis, Landon (Kelcy) Willyerd, Hillary (Carson) Knight, great grandchildren Harlow Vandervort, Willa Thompson, Kase Knight, and he was anxiously awaiting the arrival of baby boy Willyerd due in February. He is also survived by his sisters Betty Figgins, Jane Eggar, Lona Thompson, and Sheila (Dennis) Kayser, numerous nieces, nephews, and beloved friends.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 8, 2025 at the Redeemer Lutheran Church.  A reception will immediately follow.

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The following link is to the full service for Robert Vandervort:  https://www.facebook.com/franzendavisfh/videos/2082695252189808/