Robert Robertson

Sunday, March 23, 2008 2:05 AM MDT

CASPER -- Services for Rob Robertson, 83, will be held on Tuesday, March 25 at 2 p.m. at the First Christian Church.

A reception in the church will follow.

He died March 20 after 7 months of illness, surrounded by loving family, in his home.

He was born in 1924 in Casper. He graduated from NCHS in 1942, after which he joined the Navy and served in the South Pacific until the end of World War II.

In 1948 he wisely married Marie Hildebrand, and he graduated from the University of Wyoming with a Liberal Arts degree. An Alpha Tau Omega fraternity brother and president, he maintained his support for over 50 years.

He joined his father in the automobile business at Coliseum Motors in Casper. He eventually became owner of Coliseum Motors, Plymouth Center and Big Wyoming auto dealerships. In 1986, he was proud to be awarded the national Time Magazine Quality Dealer Award for business achievement and community service. He was president of the national Dodge Advertising Association for 23 years. He retired in 1994.

A long-time supporter of business and community in Casper, he was a Rotarian, served on the boards of Meals on Wheels, the Tonkin Foundation, Casper Area Economic Development, Provident Federal Savings & Loan and First Interstate Bank. He was also president of Natrona Parks and Pleasure Grounds board for seven years.

The great Wyoming outdoors was unsurpassable pleasure and beauty to him. He hiked with his family and developed great friends as a 33-year member of the hiking Cheerful Charlies.

He was one of the early skiers, beginning on Casper Mountain's nursery run and continuing to love and support skiing for most of his life. He was a founding member of Hogadon Ski Area and Casper Mountain Racers. He served on the United States Ski Association board. As a music aficionado, he especially enjoyed sharing his music with others. A life-long member of the First Christian Church, he valued his involvement with his church and religion.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Marie, his three children, Monte, Grace Marie, Sue Ann Schulte and her husband. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mont. E. and Grace G. Robertson, and a brother, Bill, who was killed in World War II.

The family asks that memorials be to Central Wyoming Hospice or the First Christian Church.

Newcomers Family Funeral Home will have visitation from 4 - 7 p.m. on Monday, March 24 and is in charge of arrangements.