Robert Daniel Yother

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert Daniel Yother, affectionately known as Bob, who passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the age of 78. Robert was born on June 2, 1948 to Hestle Leroy Yother and Edna Johnson Yother. He was the third of seven children and was later joined by his half-sister, Dorothy Mae. Robert’s early years were marked by resilience and determination. He spent time living on the Fort Belknap Reservation, in Basin, Montana, and in Butte before eventually being sent to the Twin Bridges Orphanage. Though life presented many challenges, it was there that Robert discovered one of his greatest passions – music. He learned to play several instruments and developed a love for performing that remained with him throughout his life. His talent led him to play with various bands throughout the Butte and Whitehall areas, bringing joy to countless audiences and creating lifelong friendships. After leaving the orphanage, Robert lived for a time with his older sister, Mary Lee, and his brother-in-law, Stan. He attended Butte High School and, while still under the age of 18, enlisted in military service. Motivated in part by his brother-in-law, Stan, who jokingly told him he was not tough enough to be a Marine, Robert accepted the challenge and later transferred to the United States marine Corps. He proudly served his country with honor and dedication during the Vietnam War. Throughout his life, Robert was known for his strength, perseverance and independent spirit. He never backed down from adversity and approached life with determination, humor and a deep appreciation for family, friends and music. Whether sharing stories, playing music or lending a helping hand, Robert left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Robert had a deep love for the outdoors and never passed up an opportunity for adventure. Whether he was camping beneath Montana skies, hunting in the mountains, casting a line into a favorite fishing spot or exploring back roads on his motorcycle or four-wheeler, he felt most at home surrounded by nature. He treasured the freedom those adventures provided and especially enjoyed sharing them with family and friends. Some of the happiest memories were made around campfires, on winding roads and in the great outdoors he loved so dearly. He held a variety of jobs throughout his life. After returning from military service, he worked for the Anaconda Company, followed by positions as a school bus driver, mechanic and employee at Blue Range Engineering. He also spent time driving semi-trucks before finding his calling as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service, a career he enjoyed until his retirement in 2011. Above all else, Robert cherished the relationships he built throughout his life. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friends he treasured and the memories he created. Robert will be remembered for his resilience, his service to his country, his love of music and the kindness and strength he demonstrated throughout his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, Hestle and Edna Yother, his sisters, Mary Lee, Anna Mae and Dorothy Mae; his brother, Kenny; and his former wives, Sandra Taylor and Carol Sheridan. He is survived by his wife, Janet; his children, Bobby Shane (Tracy) Yother, Cheri Lynn (Louie) Guidoni, Michael Taylor, Adell Pankovich (Jeff Jaeger), Daniel (Shianne) Yother, Kaylee (Shane) Tenold and Miriah Yother (Jaykob Surber); his grandchildren, Kortnie, Taylor, Allan, Thomas, Cole, Kirah, Jaydin, Harley, Spencer, Jaymz, Khingstyn, McKenna, Brantley, Zyton, Zechariah and 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, David (Christina) Yother, Les (Margaret) Yother and Steve (April) Yother as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends. Roberts remains are in Wayrynen-Richards Funeral Home where friends may call Sunday evening after 6 o’clock. Visitation will continue Monday morning at 10 o’clock in St. Ann Catholic Church where funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 o’clock. Interment with military honors will take place in Mountain View Cemetery. A reception will follow in St. Ann’s Parish Hall. Robert’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at the Montana Veterans Home for the kind shown to Robert and his family during his stay.

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Robert Daniel Yother

June 2, 1948 - June 20, 2026