Robert Louis Sorensen was born August 12, 1955, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Irwin Louis and Marjorie Hope Ellis Sorensen. Bob was the fourth of six children, and after three daughters, his arrival delighted his father. He passed away peacefully at home on June 19, 2025, following a courageous nearly three-year battle with glioblastoma. He lived a life dedicated to his family, those who he loved and the beauty of the outdoors.
At age eight, Bob moved with his family to Helena, Montana, where he attended Helena Public Schools. After high school he worked at Silver City Sawmill. He then moved to the Flathead where he met his future bride, Gina Osborne, to whom he was married for forty-five years. While in the Flathead, Bob worked with his father at Lakeside Continental Homes. He then changed careers to the water-well industry by starting at Liberty Drilling. His co-workers reported that they were inspired by his strong work ethic which he passed on to Emily and Sam. After many years, Bob felt it was time to bring his wife and young children to Helena to be closer to his parents and siblings. Back in Helena, he worked for many years at H & L Drilling. He again changed careers when he began working at American Chemet where he stayed until retiring. Bob prided himself on his hard work and reliable character. He often shared entertaining anecdotes from the jobs, blending technical detail with a hint of humor that revealed his playful side.
Though often perceived as serious, Bob had a lighthearted, fun side, especially around family. Whether cracking jokes around a campfire or laughing with loved ones during meals, his humor brightened many moments.
Bob pursued happiness in the simple pleasures: fishing, camping, and going on rides with Gina in the side by side. Even while battling cancer, he seized every opportunity to be present with those he loved—instilling in them a love for adventure and occasional goofiness.
Bob was preceded in death by his son Chad and his parents. He is survived by his wife, Gina, daughter Emily (Matt), and son Samuel. He also leaves behind sisters, Dawn (Mike) Lopach, Cindy (Curt) Little, Kathy (Ron) Olson, Suzi (Gerald) Watne, and brother, David (Liza) Sorensen, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He will be remembered not just as a hardworking man and devoted husband and father, but as a supportive brother, loyal friend, and a man who, despite his serious demeanor, cherished laughter and closeness. His legacy endures in the memories shared, the stories retold, and the values he lived by resilience, dedication, and joy.
A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on June 28th at 3:00 PM at Anderson, Stevenson Wilke & Retz Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society.
Rest in peace, Robert. Your well runs deep—your legacy runs deeper.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the service in the social hall of the funeral home.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
3:00 p.m.
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Celebration of His Life
Saturday June 28, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
3:00 p.m.
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Celebration of His Life
Saturday June 28, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Robin says
Gina and family. So sorry for your loss. My thought and prayers are with you. Robin
Bev Griffin says
My heart is so heavy and sad upon hearing about Bob. I love you Gina!
Diane says
Gina and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Diane.