ROBERT EUGENE MONTGOMERY

Robert Eugene Montgomery was born at Seaside Hospital in Long Beach, CA on October 11, 1927, to Emil A. Montgomery and Rose Polus Montgomery. He was the oldest of three children. Robert passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease on Saturday, January 24, 2015. He was a graduate of Madera High School, Class of 1945. Robert enlisted in the United States Army in 1945, at the age of 17, and left high school to serve his country during World War II. He later studied Animal Husbandry at Fresno State College. He married the love of his life, Betty Lou Mallory, of Madera, CA, in Minden, NV on February 22, 1953. Early in their marriage, the couple moved to Torrance, CA where Robert worked as a planner for Douglas Aircraft, and later for North American, out of Fresno. He changed industries and became a driver for McKesson Liquor and Valley Parcel Service, both in Fresno. He was a 30 year member of the Teamsters Local 431. Robert was known for his protective nature, for his intense love of his family, and for his great sense of humor. Even in the end, when anyone would ask him how he feels, he would reply matter-of-factly, "With my hands." He enjoyed spending time with his family; going to the beach or the local mountains; collecting German beer steins; going to flea markets and garage sales; watching classic tv shows and movies; listening to music of the Rat Pack; and teasing their family cat Meg. He was preceded in death by his parents; his younger sister, Gloria Justice; and his brother, Jack Montgomery. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 62 years, Betty Lou; his children, Robin Mower and her husband Dr. Richard Neil Mower of Mt. Pleasant, MI, Craig Montgomery and his wife Cheryl Montgomery of Fresno, Brian Montgomery and his wife Cynthia Montgomery of Fresno, Christine Montgomery Babcock and her boyfriend Fred Cruz of Modesto, Brett Montgomery and his wife Alyssa Peterson Montgomery of Fresno, and Carol Montgomery Brosnac and her husband Steve Brosnac of Fresno; and 11 grandchildren. A Graveside Service will be held at Arbor Vitae Cemetery in Madera, CA on Friday, January 30, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. A Private Celebration of Robert's Life will immediately follow at the home of his wife, youngest daughter, and son-in-law, in Fresno, CA. Remembrances may be made to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund, 34 Washington St., Suite 200, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481, (781) 237-3800, www.curalz.org.