Robert 'Bob' Blacketer

Robert "Bob" Blacketer, 82, passed away January 31, 2019, at the Thermopolis Rehab and Wellness Center.

Bob was born in Kingman, Ind., on August 4, 1936, to David and Mildred Blacketer, the 2nd of 6 children. When he was six, the family moved to Reliance, Wyo., to the coal camp.

After graduation, Bob enlisted in the Navy, serving on a tender in the Pacific and trained as a machinist, which was to become his life's work. Following his term of duty, he returned to Thermopolis with his family. He worked for Bob Mills at the laundry and dry cleaners where he met his future wife. He and Bernadine Schaff were married Oct. 18, 1959. That same year they moved to Mullan, Idaho, where Bob began working in the mining industry. He worked for American Smelting and Refining Co. for 32 yrs. as a machinist. In Mullan their 4 children were raised.

On retirement in 1998, they returned home to Thermopolis. Bob began working for the school district as a custodian. He also worked for St. Francis Parish as grounds keeper and fixed small engines.

Bob was an avid hunter, fly fisherman, hand loader, camping, snowcatter, and enjoyed the outdoors with his family. Bob had been a Boy Scout leader and had taught fly-fishing. He was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife, Bernadine; children, Kimberly (Todd) Johnston, Victor (Connie) Blacketer, Deone (John) Blacketer, all of the Coeur d' Alene, Idaho, area; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Patty (Rick) Decker and Debbie (Everett) Morris of Mullan, Idaho; sisters-in-law, Sharon Blacketer of Mullan, Idaho and Carole (Lee) Martinez; brother-in-law Ed (Peggy) Shaffer and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by a brother, Jackie Lee; his parents; sister, Jackie, brother, Richard; and youngest son, Kyle.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, February 13 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, with a private family service in the spring. Memorials may be sent to a charity of choice.

Mortimore Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online messages may be offered at http://www.mortfh.com.