Robert R. Emrick

CONRAD - Robert R. Emrick, 91, a retired farmer who was active in numerous community and service organizations, died of natural causes Tuesday at a Conrad hospital.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Pondera Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Survivors include his wife, LaVay; daughters Faye (Bob) Creed of Eugene, Ore., and Janet (Dan) Feeney of Coon Rapids, Minn.; a son, William (Joanne) Emrick of Columbia Falls; grand-children Errin Creed of the University of Vermont, Christina Creed Markham (Josh) of New Zealand and Russell Feeney of Minnesota; a brother, James Emrick of San Diego, Calif.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bob was born June 1, 1917, in Conrad, to Ruben and Wreatha (White) Emrick. He was raised on a farm west of Ledger, which his father established under the Carey Act, now known as the Pondera County Canal and Res-ervoir Co. Bob spent his life on that farm until he and his wife, LaVay, moved to Blue Sky Villa in Conrad in 2002. Most of his schooling was obtained in Ledger, where his mother once taught. He later attended high school in Conrad.
Bob married LaVay Thomas of Valier on Nov. 28, 1939. Together they raised three children: William Ray, Diane Faye and Janet May.
Besides raising his family, farming was his second greatest love. He also spent much of his time giving service to various local, state and national committees and organizations.
Bob especially was committed to the improvement and preservation of services throughout the local area. He often served as an officer of newly established boards, such as the Ledger Community Hall Board and the Horizon Lodge Board. Bob also served 32 years on the Ledger Farmer's Union Elevator Board. He also served as a county commissioner for 12 years, during which time the Pioneer Home and the Pondera County Medical Center were built. It was also during his term when massive cleanup work had to be done following the big flood of 1964, and the missile programs were being installed. He represented Montana at various national meetings concerning mental health and contributed time and funds toward the betterment of many public facilities throughout the county.
Bob retired from active farming in 1985, at which time he and LaVay did some traveling either by motor home or on booked tours. They thoroughly enjoyed this period of their lives. Bob's winter hobby was snowmobiling, while his summer hobby was farming. He did both with great passion. Bob also enjoyed motorcycling. At 75, he rode through Glacier National Park.
He was preceded in death by his parents and an older brother, Martin Emrick.
The family suggests that memorials be given to a charity of the donor's choice.
Condolences may be posted online at www.gftribune.com/obituaries.