Robert ‘Bob’ John Goggins, age 68, of Helena, passed away August 10, 2020 at home with his family at his side. Bob fought a brave battle with Lewy body dementia/Parkinson’s for the last seven years.
Bob was born the second of five children to Robert and Cora Goggins on September 25, 1951 in Ennis, MT. Bob grew up on the ranch, where he spent much of his time riding, including competing against his sisters in their annual horse races between windrows in the hayfield.
After graduating from Ennis High School, Bob attended Montana State University-Bozeman. He met Terri Higgins in 1969 at the Montana Winter Fair where they competed against each other for grand champion steer. They were married in 1973 and had a daughter, Coralee, in 1977.
Bob continued his education and received a BS in Animal Science from MSU. Bob and Terri ranched with Terri’s folks in the Townsend area where he was president of the Broadwater Rodeo Club, a Broadwater EMT volunteer, and a member of the Catholic Church. He enjoyed competing in the local Broadwater County Rodeo and brought home the calf roping championship buckle one year. Bob enjoyed helping at the neighbors’ brandings and shippings while riding two of the best horses ever, Buck and Bestie.
While working on the ranch, Bob continued his education at Carroll College, where he received a BA in medical records RRA. He also went on to earn his nursing home administration license and a master’s degree in Health Administration from Central Michigan University. Bob worked at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena for over 20 years in the IT department.
Bob is survived by his wife, Terri; a daughter, Coralee (Chad) Butterfield; and grandchildren, Aaron John and Marlee Lynn Butterfield. His pride and joy was being grandpa to Aaron and Marlee. He is also survived by his mother, Cora Goggins; sisters, Betty Goggins and Janet Endecott; brothers, Jim (Shelly) Goggins and Pat (Michelle) Goggins; sister-in-law, Cindy Galt; brother-in-law, Bill Galt; niece, Rachel Endecott and nephew, Coy (Valene) Goggins. Bob was preceded in death by his father, Robert Goggins; his father-and mother-in-law, Bill and Corinne Higgins; and a brother-in-law, Bob Endecott.
Bob’s quick wit and dry sense of humor are legendary, and he was known to pull pranks on people, which he was especially successful at on April Fool’s Day! A special thank you to Msgr. O’Neill for his end of life visit.
Due to COVID-19, a private family Funeral Mass with Fr. Jeff Fleming will be held at the Cathedral of St. Helena followed by burial at Deep Creek Cemetery in Townsend, MT. In lieu of flowers memorials in Bob’s name are suggested to the charity of the donor’s choice. Please visit below to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Bob.
Judy Baker says
I had the honor of working with Bob for many years at SPH. He was a wonderful, patient and kind person who was a joy to work with; he’ll certainly be missed by so many. My deepest sympathy goes out to Terry whom he obviously loved dearly. He spoke so sweetly about you, Terry. I cannot imaging the loss you’re feeling but am hopeful you’ll receive comfort from The Almighty One whom Bob is with presently! Blessings…. Judy
Connie Carson says
So Sorry to hear about Bob. I too had the honour to work with Bob at St Peter’s. Wonderful person & very hard worker. Rest in Peace🙏💗
Janet Gill says
I was saddened to hear of Bobs passing. I first met Bob at West Mont and then saw him again years later at St Peter’s. His dry sense of humor was indeed very rich. It was always a pleasure to see or work with Bob. May your family find true peace and comfort in the days to come.
Jo Berg says
Terri, sending love your way. I never met Bob but am sure the many memories you’ve made will help you through this transition.
Gay Ann and Bob Masolo says
Our prayers are with all of you in the loss of Bob. He was a gentle, kind and caring man. We loved his quiet sense of humor and how he slipped it into conversations. He showed his love to all of you and we hope the blessed memories help you in your painful loss. Hugs, Bob, Gay Ann and Leo
Linda Bears says
Terri and family…… I am so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. He was a Medical Records consultant to me at Mountain View Medical Center in White Sulphur Springs. What a nice man ! My deepest sympathies to all.
Steve and Linda McCullough says
Terri, condolences to you and your family.
Sincerely
Steve & Linda
Martha Armitage Klaumann says
I grew up with Bob, which meant we shared many years as 4-H members. Bob upheld the Goggins reputation for being good livestock judges. But what I remember most is the many fond laughable times we shared.
My blessings to all the family.
Margaret Armitage Hebel says
I remember fondly the 4-H activities and good times in Twin Bridges at the fair. Anyone for water ballons? Valley Vaqueros & a little paint horse and lots of laughter. And always that Goggins smile. Hugs & prayers Goggins family.
Shari Harris says
Terry and family, so very sorry about Bob. He was probably one of the nicest men I’ve known.
Bob Vinton says
Terri:my condolences to your family,may God give you peace and strenght
Tammy Rauser says
I am so sorry for your loss Teri and family. I have many fond memories of Bob. He was one of the kindest, most gentlest guy ever. Cherish the many memories you all have. Praying for peace and comfort for you all through this difficult time.
Tammy McCoy Beattie says
Terri, so sorry for your loss. Bob was one of a kind and you two made the best couple ever. Prayers for your family at this time.
Tammy Beattie
Bob and Linda Davis says
So sorry for your loss, Terri and family. He was such a kind and wonderful man. Prayers and hugs your way. With sympathy.
Richard Mohnk says
Bob worked with me and he IT team while I was CIO at St. Peters from 1997 – 2001. He will be remembered as a dedicated and first class person. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Goggins family.
Margie & John Mason says
Our condolences to Terri and the whole Goggins family.
We knew Bob in what can be termed the later years. Our daughter Michelle married Pat Goggins and became a part of a loving and supportive family. Bob’s persona was friendly and considerate at every family gathering. Any visit with Bob and Terri was most enjoyable. When invited to Bob’s ranch, we all took group pictures with the lamas. We remember Bob as a good man who had a good life and a family who loved him dearly and will always feel his soul in their hearts
Kathleen McCurry Huffield says
Terri, I was so saddened to hear of Bob’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love and 🙏