Robert M. Fruit

Robert M. Fruit April 7, 1922 - December 9, 2008 Robert M. Fruit, cherished husband, father, and grandfather, went home to be with the Lord, December 9, 2008, surrounded by his loving family. He and his twin brother, Sid were born at the family farm in Smith Center County, Kansas, to Roy and Lucinda Fruit on April 7, 1922. Bob and his four brothers attended a one-room country schoolhouse, and attended Mount Hope Community Church. During WWII he joined the U.S. Navy, serving a six-year tour of duty on the ships U.S.S. Harris APA 2, U.S.S. Williams DE 372, and U.S.S. Bairoka Aircraft Carrier. Bob was honorably discharged as a First Class Petty Officer. After the war he returned to Kansas to pursue farming. In the early 1950's he moved to Colorado, first to Denver then on to Grand Junction where he met his future wife, Isla Potter of Gunnison. They celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary on June 24th this year. His skill of painting landscapes, building tractors, farm equipment, wood furniture, and remodeling homes was a true gift. Bob was also known for his great sense of humor and dry wit, and kept us laughing. He loved being outdoors, seeing the beautiful mountains of Grand Mesa and Mt. Garfield, and fishing the lakes and streams. He owned and operated Bayfield Glass from 1977 until 1987. He was an avid reader and loved reading the Bible, history, and biographies. When he was 75 he went back to school to complete his high school education. As he was ill with COPD for many years, he warned all of us to never take up smoking, and if you did, quit! His example to us all, and his love and commitment to the Lord, were always present. Brothers, James, Gerald, Orval, his twin, Sidney, and his great grandson Trever Tanner preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving wife, Isla; sister-in-law, Eva Fruit; and children, Renee (Rob) Longacre, Shaunalee Fruit, Sid (Amy) Fruit, Cindy (Russ) Searing; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren and multiple nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held Friday, December 12, at 1:00 p.m. at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary, 2515 Patterson Road, Grand Junction, CO. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado, PO Box 60307, Grand Junction, CO 81506.