Robert Yohe, 89

Robert (Bob) Beach Yohe, 89, was born in West Virginia in 1936 to Chauncy and Lois Yohe. He grew up with his sister, Carolyn (Suzy), in rural Pennsylvania. It wasn’t until he took a family trip to the 63 Dude Ranch in Livingston, Mont., that he found his lifelong passion for ranch life under the Montana sky. However, it wouldn’t be until his later years that he found his way back.

After graduating from college with a B.S. degree in Geology, he joined the Navy in 1961 and served as a navigator with the VR-21 squadron. Stationed in Hawaii and Japan, he was honorably discharged in 1967 with the rank of Lt. Commander. After proudly serving and traveling the world, he settled in Colorado and later Idaho, where he started his family and worked in different roles for Safeco Insurance, eventually retiring as a marketing manager.

After retiring from Safeco, he fulfilled his dream of returning to Livingston and worked as head wrangler for the 63 Ranch, the same ranch he visited so long ago as a wide-eyed kid. He and his wife, Dorothy, made lasting friendships while working at the ranch, and became integral parts of its day-to-day operation and history until it closed in the mid-2000s.

Bob was a sports enthusiast and was always up for another ski run or round of golf. He was a dedicated fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos and Gonzaga basketball. He appreciated good conversation over a cup of coffee, long walks with his dogs and cheering on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren at their activities.

Throughout his life, Bob was an avid reader, always very well-read and curious. He could thrive in just about any scenario with his natural charisma and extensive knowledge. In his later years, he was most at home in the solitude of the outdoors with his wife and beloved animals. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, sister, and stepson, Ken Anderson. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Yohe; his children: Tim Camarata (Becky), Gina Johnson (Rob), Jennifer Piazza (Sal), Amber Yohe (Victor); his stepdaughter, Melissia McCullough (Mark); and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed!

A celebration of life for friends and family will be held at a later date.

Bob was steadfast in his belief to care for each other, animals and nature. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to local animal shelters or Hospice of North Idaho.

There’s no place like Montana,

The Big Sky country, my home.

A place to set my spirit free…

— Montana Melody

Please visit Bob’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.