Robert Edward Glass, “Bob” 67 was called home on June 7, 2013 when that huge loving heart stopped beating.
Bob was the second child of four born to Joe and Dorothy Glass on Christmas Day, 1945 in Sarnia Ontario, Canada.
Bob was raised in Helena with his siblings Chuck, Dottie and Victoria. He attended elementary at Broadwater and Jefferson schools, then Helena Middle school and graduated from Helena High in 1965. He played on Helena High’s football team his freshman year and enjoyed tumbling during varsity games.
Bob met and fell in love with his soul mate Donna Atwood during high school. After chasing her for many months she eventually gave in and they were married on November 12, 1966.
Bob joined the Montana National Guard just out of High School and served 16 years during which time he was also a special deputy for the Lewis & Clark County Sherriff’s Department.
In February of 1978, much to everyone’s surprise, Bob and Donna were blessed with their one and only child Katie; who meant the moon and stars to them. Years later Bob’s universe expanded even more, with the arrival of his two wonderful grandchildren Kila True and Dawson Khristopher. Above all, there were no more important people in Bob’s life than Donna, Katie, Kila and Dawson.
In the 70’s Bob and Donna along with his parents Joe and Dorothy opened the B & J Bingo Hall and Glass’ Fish-n-Chips on Euclid Ave, which they owned and operated until 1981. It was then that Bob and Donna pursued a new venture. With the help of Donna’s parents Al & Trudy they built and opened the Glass Slipper Lounge and Grocery on Canyon Ferry Road.
Bob was one of the hardest working men that you could ever come by. The Glass Slipper was and continues to be a successful business largely in part due to Bob’s dedication in running his establishment. Bob took pride in providing a happy, friendly atmosphere where everyone felt welcome. This shows in the enduring friendships he had throughout his life. Although at times his rough demeanor overshadowed his heart of gold folks who knew him understood and loved him just the same. Whether a friendly political debate, just shooting the breeze or sharing the usual hunting & fishing stories and lies he was always up for a good time with his patrons which were more like family.
Bob was a man of many hobbies and interests. He loved activities such as basketball, camping on the river, football, bowling, shooting pool, darts and water skiing to name few. He also enjoyed going 4 wheeling, hunting and fishing with his friends and family. Growing up, Bob always had a love for the “Cowboy Way” and horses that he shared with his little sister Victoria. At a slightly advanced aged Bob found a new love for the sport of team roping. He continued this passion even after his aching bones made the sport rough to pursue. You could always find Bob at the closest arena with his friends, rope in hand, ready to “pantyhose” one on the corner. On the rare occasion you didn’t find him in the arena you could always find him on the golf course. It wasn’t unheard of for Bob to head to the pro shop in the middle of 18 to replace his “beloved” pitching wedge after an unfortunate incident on the fairway. Always a political warrior, Bob took a shot at a House seat in the 80’s and county commissioner in the late 90’s. Although he was not elected, his customers often “enjoyed”…..sometimes endured his opinions and views expressed from his Glass Slipper soap box.
Bob was also a very giving man. He was always the first one to step up to volunteers his time or his resources for anyone who needed it. He was a proud former member of the East Helena Rodeo Association as well as a current sponsor. He was also previously involved with the Optimist Club, the Eagles and Toastmasters to name a few.
Bob is survived by the love of his life, his wife Donna J. Glass, daughter Katie (Kris) Bakke, grandchildren Kila True and Dawson Khristopher Bakke, brother Chuck (Barb) Glass, sisters Dottie (Roy) Maxted and Victoria Glass; as well as his brother by choice David Drake. He is also survived by nieces and nephews Debbie, Mike, Eric, Allan, Joe, Michelle, Shannon, Dusty and Devin. Although Katie was Bob’s only child his heart was so big he is also leaving behind numerous special individuals he often referred to as his own including Jennifer Abelin Gray, Kori Brown Fanning, Dani Tuffli, Lanny Witham Wock, Joshua Pocha and Klancy Jones to name a few.
He is preceded by his parents Joe & Dorothy Glass, Donna’s parents Allen & Gertrude Atwood and numerous others who have greeted him with open arms as well as his best horse Eli.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held Wednesday June 12th at 3:30 at the East Helena rodeo grounds. There will be a pot luck reception following at the Glass Slipper.
The family would like to give special thanks to the Goettle family, Kindra Stenjhem, Quin Agee, Bill “Bear” Larson, Mark Thompson, Fred “the other grumpy old man”, Bob Drake and Tri-Lakes Fire Department, the ICU staff at St. Peters hospital, Ronnie, Bob’s good friend Ray McGowan and the East Helena Rodeo Association, Shelly Mitchell and the staff at Shelly’s Café, and everyone from the Glass Slipper family for your support and help.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that you help someone in need and pay it forward. Please visit below to offer the family condolences or to share a memory of Bob.
DEBBIE MURGEL SCHRAMM says
OUR PRAYERS AND LOVE GO OUT TO YOU ALL. HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY, HE HAD A HEART OF GOLD AND WAS A GOOD HEARTED PERSON. YOU WILL HAVE A LOT OF GOOD MEMORIES OF HIM AND HE WILL ALWAYS BE IN YOUR HEART. KEEP YOUR CHINS UP AND REMEMBER THAT SMILE BOB ALWAYS HAD ON IS FACE NOT MATTER WHAT. HE WAS A VERY STRONG PERSON. WE WILL MISS HIM AND WE LOVED HIM VERY MUCH. LOVE DEB AND DEE
Leon and Marsha Belville says
DEAR DONNA AND FAMILY- WE WERE SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOT BOB PASSING. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU AND K.T AND FAMILY.
AS ALWAYS, MARSHA AND LEON
Dale and Nancy Paulson says
We were sadden to hear of Bob’s passing. We will miss his smiles and his quips he always had at the ready. Bob would help anybody – readily give them the shirt off his back if necessary – at ant time. He was quite the character and we will miss not having him around. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and KT and all family.
Sharon L. Nelson says
Dear Donna and family, I just heard about Bob’s passing and please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I will always remember the fun times we had at the Slipper. Ray and I loved stopping by and talking to you and Bob and his mother and father. RIP my dear friend, I am sorry I can’t make the celebration but I am living in Arizona since Ray passed away. God bless your family.
Matt, Lenette & Josh Egan says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tony, Winnie, Logan Strainer says
Donna and Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Bob was such a big part of the extended family and will be so missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Please don’t hesitate to call if you ever need anything.
Tony, Winnie, and Logan Strainer
Marlene Coyle Logfellow says
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
RD and Carol L. Smith says
Our condolences to Donna and family. We met Bob in 1994 at a roping at Wagners when they lived on Applegate. We can’t remember when Bob wasn’t trying to team rope. What a character and a heart of gold. He will be missed.
Staci Gleich says
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I grew up at canyon ferry lake and loved riding my horses to the glass slipper. It was so fun. You will be missed by many.
Adena Savage says
To my beautiful family, I love you all and I have so many wonderful memories if Bob. He will be greatly miss. Katie you and I have grown up together as family and friends… Your dad was an amazing role model, teacher, guide, husband and dad. There are not enough words… I love you so much lady. You guys have been there for me in my times of need and I just want you to know I am here for you all in this time. I think back on all the memories I have and the one that sticks out is when we borrowed your moms red Cadillac and we only had the guts to take it around the block and it was raining and to hide that we didn’t take it we were in the garage with your hair dryer drying the tire tracks and your dad opened the door and i can remember him just laughing because we went to such extremes to hide that we took the car. And if I remember right we were like 12 years old.. His beautiful smile is forever imprinted in my memory! I will always love you Bob Glass!
Mark Ryckman says
A good man gone too soon. Bob will be long remembered for all he did. My prayers go to the ones left behind. God bless!
Cathy Culbertson Evans says
To all the members of the Glass family and especially to you Donna: I haven’t visited or seen you and Bob much in the last years, but consider you dear friends and have so many fond memories. We had lots of laughs as kids and am forever greateul to have shared them with Bob. My heart will always be with you and I hipe to visit and see you soon. Always, Cathy (Tink)
Jim & Bettie Greytak says
We have been out of town and just learned of Bob’s passing. He and his family were our neighbors for several years prior to moving out near Canyon Ferry. We send our condolences to Donna, Katie and family. It was our fortune to have known Bob and we have fond memories of him. He was a fun person. Jim & Bettie Greytak
Val Flansaas says
Donna I am so sorry to hear about Bob. You and your family are in my prayer. He will be greatly missed.
Deziah Gilliam says
KT and Kila I am so sorry for your loss, just think of the good times you all had. And think that he is up in heaven riding and roping from dawn to dusk in the great rodeo arena in the sky. He will always be watching over you all.
Jerry Waling says
Donna and Family,
Was shocked to hear of Bob’s passing. Our families have been closely linked for the past 70 years. Having known Bob since we were little, it brings to mind a ton of memories from the past. From family times together, to the cabin in Lincoln, to his love of life. He will surely be missed. Our prayers go out to you all.
Jerry and Ginny
linda (grotte) storey says
donna and famiy
Bob was a wonderful guy, he will be missed by many. My thoughts are with you at this time
Don & Patty Eva says
We had our first roundup roping on Saturday, and I can’t tell you how sad we all were that Bob wasn’t there. I talked to him at the last roping and he was so excited for the roundup ropings because his kids were going to rope. That is what Bob was about Family, work, and fun in what ever order he wanted. Katy and Chris, I hope you will be able to fulfill his wish and come rope with us. We all loved him and will miss his antics terribly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Patty
Rhonda Strainer says
Dear Donna and Family,
Was so saddenend to hear of Bob’s passing. He was a self-less person and I will miss him. He always had a twinkle in his eye and a great smile. I hope all the great memories you hold so close in your heart will sustain you during this time and the days ahead.
Rhonda Strainer
Josh & Becky LaFromboise says
Donna & Family,
Our condolences to the entire family. Bob had a heart gold and was a great man. Heath and I were just chatting the other day about the fun roping trips we had with Bob in Great Falls and Whitehall. He was quite a character and he will be missed greatly.
Josh and Becky LaFromboise
Chris Warren says
Donna,
Bob was a very special person, one of a kind. We all will miss him and his stories very much. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jenn Thompson & Family says
To the Bakke Family~
In th small amount of time I knew your Husband, Father, Grandpa, & Uncle, I met such a great guy! Always willing to help others in need and be there for anyone when needed.
He blessed each and everyone he came in contact with.
“The Broken Chain”
We little knew that day,
God was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
In death, we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you.
You did not go alone.
For part of us went with you,
The day God called you home.
You left us beautiful memories,
Your love is still our guide.
And although we cannot see you,
You are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.
Author: Ron Tranmer
Joe&Donna murgel and girls says
We are sorry to hear of your loss Bob was a good man and he would help or give the shirt off his back Katie and Donna we are truly sorry if you need anything don’t hesitate to ask we are here praying for you and your family
Kasie Hogue and Family says
Words can never express what an amazing man Bob was. His gruff exterior was never that gruff, he would do anything for anyone and not limited to donating to little league baseball which we are truly greatful for, or better yet when he tries to convince us he isn’t any good at darts, Ha! :-). Donna, Katie, Kris, Kila and Dawson love you all so much, and we are here if you need anything at all! <3
Prudence cooper and Familys says
Dear Chris and Family, It’s very hard to lose such a dear one! Time will pass and memories will last forever, it’ helps to dwell on them. Hugs to all of you, fr, Gary, Brett and myself.
You are all in our hearts. God Bless
Tracy Grove says
we are so sorry for your loss and that of Bobs many friends. God bless you and yours. Good bye our friend. Tracy Grove and Harold Grove.
Charmon and Randy Hansen says
Bob will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his whole family. God Bless
Connie Ward-Beatty says
Donna, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Bob’s passing. You captured the essence of Bob in his obituary so well. He will be dearly missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Katie and the grandkids.
Amy Pratt Davis says
I was saddened to hear that Bob passed away. It has been a long time since we stopped in at the Glass Slipper to get drinks and worms to take out to “the land”. I enjoyed spending time with all of you out at the lake. Bob was a good man! Donna, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jennie Trimble/ Mark Connole says
Donna and family, We are so sorry for the loss of Bob. He was a good person. May all the good memory’s help you at this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mark Connole and Jennie Trimble
Norm & Darlene Scott says
We are so sorry and shocked to hear of Bob’s passing. May the many wonderful memories that you have help to carry you through this very hard time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Norm and Darlene
Debbie and Mark Fike says
Dear Donna ,Katie and family. Mark and I are so sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We will always remember our visit two years ago, the glass slipper, horseback riding, we will keep that closely in our hearts forever. I will always remember the visit with Bob after the service when he came to Sarnia, my tall handsome big cousin Bobby in his uniform! He will always be remembered!
Judi Dahl Foutz says
Dear Donna and family,
So sad to hear that my childhood friend has passed away. We all loved Bob for the good man that he was and our class reunions will not be the same without him. Heaven received a beautiful angel when he called Bob home. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Karleen (Polutnik) Hanson says
Donna, Katie and Family
My heart is aching for you all. Bob was my first boss, I remember all the things I learned from him. Mostly a incredibly strong work ethic. I recall (like yesterday) Donna bringing Katie into the Fish and Chip place. Katie was 4 years old and the most adorable little girl ever. Bob was so proud of her and his family. Family was super important to him and if you were his friend, you were family! ONE OF A KIND! I’m proud to have known him. Love and hugs coming your way. We’ll be there for the services.
Karleen
Tammy & Pete Ryan says
It’s difficult to express sympathy during such a sudden loss. We will always treasure Bob’s kindness, smile, sparkling eyes, and spunk. We hope you find swift comfort knowing that he didn’t suffer and that he’s among family and friends, probably roping up a storm and smiling down at this beautifully written obituary and service that you have planned. Take care, Pete & Tammy Ryan
Mickey & Topper galloway says
So saddened over Bob”s passing. He was a super longtime friend (grade school on thru) & a great guy who was always there for you. Going to miss our good times together & fun discussions. Our thoughts & prayers are with Donna & all the family. God bless all of you & we know Bob, you’re roping on those streets of Gold, love ya always! Topper – In this life there have only been less than a handful that I could say that they would stand by me no matter what, that’s what Bob was, he’ll always be in my heart and mind.
Don Pratt and family says
Donna and family. I was so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Our thoughts are with you and Katie at this time. If there is anything tht we can do for you, please call on us. I know God will help you at this time of need. I still remember the great times we had down at “the land”
Len, Patty, Melissa Niemi & Shawn Crum says
Donna, Katie & Family,
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Bob, we all will miss him. He always had us in stitches with every conversation that was had. His smile, laughter, thoughtfullness & love will truly be missed. Our hearts, thoughts & prayers our with you.
All Our Love!!
Len, Patty, Melissa & Shawn
marty martensen says
donna, i was surprised to hear about bob, i didn’t realize he had been ill. it’s been years since anna and i visited you at the house. he looked fine then. we enjoyed our visit, and haven’t been back to helena for quite a while, about 6 yrs ago. i remember our early days together, such good times down by the river and all. bob said “i’ll show you where i am going to build the bar–we went out and he had boards layed out on the ground with stakes. he was so excited about the future plans. that man was a total joy to be around . i will truly miss him, my sincerest regards to you and katie and your family, marty and anna
John Hart says
To Bob’s family. So sad to hear that Bob passed on, we only were able be in Bob’s company at the First Special Service Force reunions, but it was always a blast and he was one of a kind that I had planned to get to know better. Will never forget how all of you made us feel so at home at the “Glass Slipper” Thinking of you at this time…
Rich South says
Donna , Katie and family,
Many great comments and memories from Bobs lifelong friends. Very grateful for our brief reconnect back in the ’90s. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Rich
Dan and Pat Maness says
Bob always had a smile on his face and friendly whenever we saw him. I have known Bob since high school and he was a great guy. He will be missed. Our families knew each other. Our thoughts and prayers will be with his family.
Dan and Pat (Gregory) Maness
Doug and Betty Glass says
Donna and family–we were sure surprised and saddened to learn of Bob’s passing. Am so happy we have the memories of the time we spent with you and Bob when we visited a few years back. We had such a good time there and especially at the “rodeo” !! Our thoughts are with you at this time and beyond !
GARY SYLJUBERGET says
OUR THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU ALL. GARY AND WILMA..
McGuire Family says
Dear Donna and Bakke Family,
When I think of Bob, I just see his smile, I don’t think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. I know how much he loved his family and friends and you all now have an amazing angel watching over you. He always had a huge smile when he talked about Kila and Katie.
Scott gives his condolences for your loss, he will miss Bob very much. Scott enjoyed spending time with him when he could and those memories mean the world to Scott.
Mary Zogg says
Dear Donna, Katie and all of your family,
I was so sad to hear of Bob’s passing so suddenly and the grief it has caused. I have
fond memories of Bob and you Donna and all of the Glass family as I felt they were
my family too. I’m sorry I never got to meet Katie. My heart and prayers go out to
all of you. Thinking especially of you right now as you have his celebration of life. May
you hear lots of great stories that will bring you joy and laughter and tears. Embracing all of you with love. I have been talking with my brother, Michael Harding the last few days
and know he is feeling your loss. He graduated with Bob and I know they have been in touch. Lots of Love, Mary Harding Zogg
Steve and Wrenie Knutson says
To The Bob Glass Family, we are so sorry for your loss. Bob was a wonderful man. He was the first to welcome us to the Helena Valley and make us feel at home, inviting us to his home to enjoy his family, a good meal, and cards. What a smile he had for all that was lucky enough to come into contact with, he had a way of making you feel special. Jessica and I will never forget seeing him pushing snow out of our driveway when Steve was gone. How lucky we were to have such an awesome neighbors. Someone told me when my Dad passed away that hurting is the price we pay for loving someone. Today we are all hurting but I am thankful for the memories we have of the time we spent in Bob’s company. We will so miss Bob, and that contagious smile. Donna I hope you know that if you should need anything please know we are here for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Steve & Wrenie
Jo O'Brien Wing says
I am sorry to here of bobs passing. Donna and you are in my thoughts and bob may be gone but i will allways remember him every time i find money in one of my pockets.
Karla Roche/ Rory Hoffman says
You all are in our thoughts and prayers- Bob was a great person, he will be deeply missed!
Mel & Betty Humphrey says
We are saddened that a brave, loving, giving heart stopped this soon in his life. Donna & family are thoughts & prayers are with you at this time, I knew Bob from shortly out of High School when he went to work for the National Guard. He was young but always an able and hard working man and was well liked by his fellow workers. All that knew him will miss this outgoing, community minded man.
Tim & Cheryl Heinle says
Donna & family, our thoughts and prayers go out to you. He was a good guy that left us too soon. Tim & Cheryl Heinle
Ernie and Wendy McCaffree says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We have many fond memories of roping with Bob. He always had such a good time and had a heart of gold. Hold your memories tight as they will see you through the difficult times. God’s Blessings, .The McCaffree Family
John Link says
It saddens me deeply to say farewell to a great human being. We had some interesting discussions over the years.
My thoughts are with Donna and the Glass family.
It was always my pleasure to stop by the Slipper and chat with Bob.
He was loved by all and will be greatly missed.
John & Carolyn Link
Aloha, Oregon
Michelle and Josh Talseth says
We always saw Bob with a smile on his face and he always had kind word to say .It will be sad not to see him at the rodeos and ropings, he was a character for sure. Our thoughts and prays are with his family and friends during this diffucult time . Enjoy one another and your wonderfull memories. Michelle and Josh Talseth
Lynn Hadley Harrington says
Bob and I went to Helena High and graduated the same year. He was always such a positive person and lots of fun. I even have a picture of us going to one of the proms, I think maybe our sophomore year. I always looked forward to seeing him at he reunions. Although I live in Denver I have never missed one. What a loss to everyone who knew him. I’m so happy he had such a rich and fulfilling life with many who loved him. We sure all did! My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Jacques Beaudin says
Bob Glass was my neighbor, although our first meeting was not a postive experance, he was able to calm and accept my position and let me do what I needed to do! Over the next ten years, he helped me with a flat one winter morning, loaning me his jack, and we would wave at each other as we would past each other and a few times he even helped me recapture our excepted animals. He even let me have a gallon of milk paying him later when our youngins were young. I know he was a man of honer, kindness and did work hard to make this place a better place. I know he is missed,as wittness by so many in what has been written. My thoughts and prayers to our neighbor and family.
Carolyn K Pelletier says
To the Glass Family: So sorry to read of Bob’s passing. Bill Woon was kind enough to contact me with this sad news. I am so glad that you have so many wonderful memories to help you through this difficult time. I was very surprised and pleased to read that Bob belonged to Toastmasters. I am very active with Toastmasters, he just joined many wonderful other Toastmasters who left this world too soon. My deepest sympathy to the entire family. I know Bob will be missed by many, many people.
Pete Hamper says
A bit late but very much heart felt. I come to Helena about four times a year, and always made a point to visit Bob. He always had an interesting story, and his energy recharged my battery. I remember in particular it was New Years, and I stopped into the Glass Slipper one thing led to another, and Bob and Donna had me at their beautiful home. Bob showed me all the work he put into it. From him being around my parents home in highschool to him being an active business man I could never understand where he always had so much energy. Rest in piece Bob.