In the early morning hours of June 9, 2015, Bob passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus at his home in Helena Montana, after an extended illness, surrounded by his wife and family.
Bob was born in LaPorte, Indiana on September 25, 1939 to Ralph A. Lindgren and Georgia L. Kemper Lindgren.
He graduated from Culver Military Academy in 1958. As a cadet member of the Culver Black Horse Troop he was chosen to ride as an escort in the inaugural Memorial Parade for President Dwight D. Eisenhower. In January 1963, he received his degree in Commercial Printing Management at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI, where he was a member of the Pershing Rifles Honorary Frat. and ROTC Program.
Robert and Charmaine K. Freeman married on February 2, 1963 and soon after began their family of 3 children while serving in the Armed Forces. Robert reported to Ft. Gordon, Georgia in April of 1963 as a 2nd Lt. U.S. Army Signal Corp, and was then transferred to Fort Leavenworth, KS, General Command and Staff College, where he was assigned as Layout and Design Editor of the Military Review Monthly Army Magazine. Here their first child, Scott Edward was born.
In May of 1965 the family transferred to Ft. Monmouth, NJ, where Bob completed Advanced Communications Operations and Cryptography Schooling. While here, their second child Amber Louise was born.
From 1965-1968 Mannheim, Germany was to become their new home. Bob was assigned as Executive Officer in Company A 97th Signal Battalion. He was promoted to Captain and reassigned as Signal Batt. Adjutant for one year. Captain Lindgren was then assigned as Headquarters Co. Commander. During the first year as C.O., under his leadership, Headquarters Company was the only Signal Unit out of 16 battalions to pass the Command Maintenance and Material Inspection, conducted by a U.S. Army Military Independent Team. Germany was the birthplace of their third child, Vincent Kemper.
After receiving his Honorable Discharge in 1968, Bob and family returned stateside, where he accepted employment in Livingston MT, with Lee Enterprises Printing, then eventually settled in Helena, MT where he was in partnership with Thurber Printing Co. for 14 years until he sold the business. He took a position with Lewis and Clark Co. Tax Dept.and was then elected as County Auditor. While employed full time, Bob also served the community in numerous positions both paid and voluntary. Instructor for Officer Candidate School at the MT Military Academy, and MT Army N.G., National High School Rodeo Commission, Demolition Derby Chairman, Canyon Creek Dist. 4 Trustee Chairman, Boy Scouts, BOD Friends of the Fairgrounds, Lewis and Clark Co. Reserve Dept. for 24 years serving as Treasurer for over two decades. He was a member of: NRA, MT Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association, Rocky MT Elk Foundation and a 40 year member of the American Legion. His work in the community is a great inspiration and will be missed by many.
In addition to all of his community service Bob was an avid hunter and outdoorsman with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Bob is survived by his wife of 52 years, Charmaine. Children Scott (Jodi) of Helena, Amber Gerhart (Rodger) of Missoula, Vincent (Relinda) of Missoula. Grandchildren: Georgia Michel (Eric), Samuel, Nicole, Victoria, Nicholas, and great grandchildren: John and Honoria due in July, brother Ralph (Linda) of Arizona and their children: Brett (Emily) of Michigan, Tamara of Arizona, nieces and nephews: Garrett, Grace, Savanna, and Adrienne: Sister-in-law: Jean Stephens (Jason), Brother-in-law: Richard Freeman.
Bob was an amazing husband, father and grandfather, a kind and wonderful man, who loved and cherished his family dearly. Papa Bob we love you and miss you!
The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, 2015. A funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 15th at Helena’s First Assembly of God Church, 2210 Dodge Ave. A graveside service will follow at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison. In lieu of flower, memorials in Bob’s name are suggested to the Lewis and Clark Sheriff Reserve; 221 Breckenridge, Helena, MT 59601.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday June 14, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
10:30 a.m.
Monday June 15, 2015
Helena's First Assembly of God Church
2210 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Monday June 15, 2015
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Hero's Road
Fort Harrison, Montana
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday June 14, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
10:30 a.m.
Monday June 15, 2015
Helena's First Assembly of God Church
2210 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Monday June 15, 2015
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Hero's Road
Fort Harrison, Montana
Share
Deaette Powell says
Bob must have been a wonderful person. Though he and I never met, I know two of his children, Amber and Vince. These two, God loving- Jesus following people, are a testimony that Bob instilled in his children the one & only thing that truly matters in this life…having a passionate vital relationship with Jesus. The legacy of such is truly commendable; may this legacy he left be the passion of ALL his extended family. Deaette
Dirk Andersen says
Bob is one of life’s few and special people. I met him so many years ago now, but from that moment by life was enriched by him. So kind, caring, a thoughtful man who thought of others first. Many times he spoke of his wife Charmaine and his children and Scott whom I was blessed to have worked with and who was quite the apple in Bob’s eye. I do not have the words to express my grief or those that may bring comfort to his family which he so dearly loved. I am at a loss. Bob you will be with me always and to Charmaine, Scott and all his children and grandchildren not many men leave this world the better for being in it. He did. May God embrace you all.
Cleo Schultz says
I am so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I met him at Action Print and enjoyed each and every time he would come in and visit while he did his copying. He was a very kind man and always pleasant know matter how he was feeling. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family at this difficult time,
Cleo
Judy Gardner says
Charmaine and family, I am so sorry to hear of Bob’s death. We have known each other for a long time and whenever Dale and I saw you,you both were so loving and kind. Bob always had something good to say to us and good advise to give y manyus if we asked. He will be missed by many people.
John and Patty Elliott says
Charmaine and family~~~ Bob was quite a guy. His smile and sense of humor always got my attention. I loved the way he was, always so straightforward and honest. We will miss him.
Sister Charmaine, we love you and we pray for God’s comfort to be with you during this difficult time.
Rachel Moore says
Bob was someone who had the ability to lift spirits just by his smiling, cheerful presence. He was “old fashioned” in all the best ways: honest, living for the Lord, joyful, a man of manners and morals. Charmaine & family…what a blessing to know where Bob is and we will see him again, surely he has already heard “well done, good and faithful servant”.
Tammie Zarske says
Scott, Amber and Vince.
I am truly sorry for your loss. Bob was an amazing, caring man. Attending school with you and getting to know you, has been a blessing. Meeting Bob about twenty five years ago it all makes sense where you all got most of your charm, kindness and love for life. Bob will truly be missed
Jim Heffernan says
I first met Bob around 1979, while I was serving as a sworn Reserve Deputy for the Lewis and Clark Sheriff’s Office. During that time, Bob filled me in on the Montana Laws and Regulations pertaining to Montana Law Enforcement. Bob and I became friends and I enjoyed his honesty and sincerity as well as his “Jibs” on the Marine Corps. Over the years, I had the honor to participate in numerous patriotic operations and Bob was always there with his lovely wife Charmaine, until this past Memorial Day. Bob, you lived a good, worthwhile and memorable life. “Winds and Following Seas” my friend. Semper Fi.
Gina Wiest says
Charmaine and family: I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know I am thinking of you at this difficult time.
Tom Naegele says
Charmaine & Lindgren Family,
Prayers of Support are sent your way. What a Wonderful man and friend Bob has been. The Naegele Family will miss him and his whit. God Bless.
Tonna Strasko says
We will miss you Bob.
Charmaine, Bob was a wonderful person to deal with when I worked with him at the County. God bless you all.
Tonna Strasko
Richard E. Grady says
Prayers and thoughts to all of Bobs Family. Bob served on many local organization, and a long time board member with the Trinity School District in Canyon Creek, that he represented the constitutes in the Birdseye Area. A very dedicated individual to our local law enforcement with the Sheriff Department. Thank-you Bob!!
Scott Lindgren says
Dad, I am so blessed, honored and privileged to be your son. You have and always will be an example of what it means to be a dad to us kids, a papa to the grandkids, and a husband to mom! I look back over the years and think…how do I best describe a man? Its you dad…You were fully devoted, kind, gentle, compassionate, caring, loving, giving, hard working, and the list goes on…I know you are in such a better place now; most likely pumping some iron, running hard, hiking the mountains, swimming the lakes and eating till you can’t eat anymore! 🙂
I love and miss you so much dad!!!
Scott
Jodi Lindgren says
Praising the Lord that we who are saved, do not grieve as those who have no hope! For I know my Redeemer lives!
Thanking the Lord for the life of my father-in-law Bob Lindgren, who passed from death unto life on June 9, 2015. Thanking God for a quiet man of great strength, who gently and lovingly provided for the needs of his household and bore the mantle of leadership in a powerful way that trained the man I love and married almost exactly 29 years ago.
I am amazed at the testimony that this man left here in the form of his sons and his daughter and their devotion to each of their families and to the people that the Lord puts in their lives.
Even in the 2 weeks while he was in the hospital before his passing, he had a powerful testimony as many, many dr.’s, nurses and staff at the hospital commented on what an unusual family he had. No fighting, no dissension, only love and caring for one another in the midst of trial.
Praising God for a man who did not use meaningless or careless words but showed by his actions, love and care to his family, even until he drew his last breath, waiting for everyone in the family to be asleep before he passed on to Glory.
Praising God for a man who LIVED his testimony. John 13:35 – “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”
Relinda Lindgren says
This week we had to say goodbye to my wonderful father-in-law. It is a privilege to be this man’s daughter-in-law. He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather. His lessons were taught more with actions than words. His work in the community cannot be equaled and he will be missed by MANY. My heart is full today, but SO VERY THANKFUL he is celebrating his 1st days of eternity and once again enjoying life! Vince and I are so thankful for all the prayers from family and friends. Amongst the tears, there is great rejoicing! Hold down the fort for us dad! 😉
Vince Lindgren says
My dad. An incredible man of honor and integrity. He, in his quiet way, taught me so many things in life that I now find myself putting into action. You instilled in me, so many things even without saying a word. Actions DO speak louder than words! Thank you for all the life lessons dad. I love you and will see you again someday!
Jean Stephens says
My brother-in-law, Bob Lindgren, was a gem of a man who walked through life with a twinkle in his eye and a ready smile, infectious to all those around him. He was known for giving out carefully crafted words of wisdom laced with humor which helped mold his kids into the wonderful adults they have become. It was my privilege to know you and I’m grateful for your loving care of my sister and her family. Their legacy of love and devotion to each other is a beautiful, ongoing testament to the life you lived. My thoughts and prayer are with you during this difficult time.
Jeanie Freeman Stephens
Kathy Fehlig says
Charmaine: I was sad to read about Bob’s passing. You and I go back many years. My love to you and your family.
Maxine & Tom Ferguson says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time. We hope good memories will help sustain you in the years ahead.
Laura Welker says
Bob, I loved having you as my “adopted” grandpa. You always greeted me with the biggest grin and friendliest hug. Always keen on hearing how I was doing, even when you were going through so much. Such a gentle, godly man – it was a deep privilege to know you these past ten years. I am so thankful you are now hearty and whole, cracking jokes with Jesus. I look forward to seeing you again!
Mark Shepherd says
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Keith and Brandy Sanders says
Dear Scott and Jodi,
We are so very sorry about your family’s loss … please accept our deepest sympathies. No amount of time is enough to spend with those we love or to prepare our hearts for letting them go.
We miss you and think of you every day, and we will be keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Please call or visit if there is anything we can do to help.
Many blessings …
Vonda Franklin says
We just want you to know we are thinking of you all. We are so sorry for your loss. My mom just had surgery so will not be able to attend his service, but our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Brett Lindgren and Family says
Aunt Charmaine, Scott, Amber, Vince, and family,
Uncle Bob will be missed greatly by all of us and we are sorry for your loss. He was a great man with so many accomplishments in life and a great teacher of life’s lessons. Even though we were over a thousand miles away, you and Charmaine still thought of us and our kids during the holidays and birthdays. Thankyou! Thanks for the great memories of the time we spent together in Michigan, Arizona and especially in Montana.
Brett and Family
Tony, Barbara and Mary Louise Freeman says
Charmaine and all the family, you are in our thoughts and prayers and have all our sympathies for your loss. Bob was a wonderful man and the world is a better place for his having lived in it.
All our love,
Your Aunt Mary Louise, Barbara and Tony
Robert East says
I am so very sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I know he was a good man, husband and father. May God watch over you and yours until once again you two are united in God’s Kingdom.
Best Regards, Bob
Vince Lindgren says
I stumbled across this site while doing some inquiries and had some time to reflect on the past 3 1/2 years since my father’s passing. It is now Feb.15, 2019 and I have had many poignant moments of my dad coming to the forefront of my thoughts. At times sorrowful yet at other times, encouraging, uplifting and motivating. I smile when I think of you dad and am moved by how much I miss you still. I don’t believe that will ever go away, though it may dissipate some, it will always be that little bit of sting however it is greatly offset with the understanding that I know where you are now and that I am sure to see you again face to face. This brings me comfort and so much joy and encouragement and motivates me to be a better man, husband and father in everything I do and say. Thank you dad for setting before me a path and direction to follow and hopefully better the life I have now and for my family. See you in heaven dad, I love you so very much and can’t wait to see you again someday!
Robert Lindgren says
Semper Fidelis, Robert!
Robert J. Lindgren
Prescott, AZ