Robert Snelson

Robert "Bob" James Snelson, of Lewiston, died from cancer on May 15, 2024, at his home, with his wife Linda by his side. Bob was 69 years old. Bob was born in Los Angeles County, to Robert Dewey Snelson and Betty Lee Snelson. He grew up in California in his younger years with his parents. While in high school, Bob moved to Provo, Utah, to live with his greatly loved Uncle "Bun" and Aunt Marti. Bob attended Provo High School and graduated in 1972.
After high school, Bob served in the U.S. Army from 1973-76. He then attended Dixie State University and trade school to obtain his optician certificate. A great accomplishment of his was being named "Optician of the Year" while living in Southern California.
Bob lived in many places and had many homes throughout his life. One thing was for sure, Montana was his favorite. He worked as an optician at more than one location, as a bartender at Shotgun Willies in Laurel, Mont., and as a sporting goods manager in the gun department and sporting equipment at Big Bear Sporting Goods in Billings, Mont. Big Bear Sporting Goods is where he met his wife Linda (Howerton), when they worked together. Bob and Linda moved to Lewiston to care for Linda's mother for 15 years, in the same home where he would live his last days.
Bob loved hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his dogs. He had several best-friend dogs of several breeds including Gordon Setters, Scotties, mutts, a Newfoundland and a Leonberger. He loved sharing stories with family over the phone and listening to stories of what his children and grandchildren were up to. He gave great pointers on life, school, basketball and cooking. We will continue to attempt his fried chicken and cheese rolls.
Bob is survived by his wife Linda; his sister Sharon (Steve) Johnson, of Arizona, his sister Teri Jensen of California; his son Sean Gibson of Washington, his stepson Jason (Tonya) Rauch of Riverton, Utah, his stepdaughter Jenna (Terry) Haddock of Sandpoint; his four grandchildren: Maya (21), Linkin (16), Wesley (15) and Hudson (14); his cousin Sheryl Cox of Montana; and his forever best friend Mike Cox of Montana.
Bob was preceded in death by his dad Robert Snelson, his mom Betty Snelson and his sister Stacy England.
A celebration of life will be held to honor Bob at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 26, at the VFW Hall, 1104, Warner, Ave., Lewiston. Bob will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.