Robert Maupin

Robert “Bob” Preston Maupin, 86, walked through heaven's gates on Tuesday, January 14, 2014 in Billings, Montana. He was born August 8, 1927 to Robert, Sr. and Mary (Dolan) Maupin in Grainton, Nebraska. Robert was the fourth of nine children and graduated from Grainton High School in 1945. He lived at the family home, helping his dad on the farm until he graduated. In January of 1951, Robert was inducted into the US Army. He spent a year in Germany and was honorably discharged January 1953. The following month, he was called to Gering, NE to help on the Emery Tillotson farm. While there, he met Betty Jo Tillotson and they were married May 3, 1953. Three daughters were added to this marriage. His family was excited to be able to celebrate Robert and Betty's 60th anniversary May 3, 2013. Robert and Betty lived in the Gering area and in December 1956 he began working at the US Postal Department during the Christmas holiday. Then in January 1957, he became a full-time employee, working as a foot carrier on the same route until he retired in 1985. He was dearly loved by all of his postal patrons for his kindness and thoughtfulness. He went above and beyond to make sure everyone was happy. He was a farmer at heart and carried that through his whole life. He and Betty would grow an unbelievable garden year after year. Of course, their kids and grandkids got to share in the rewards of their hard work, dedication and loving labor to their “hobby”. Robert was always there to help anyone in need, including neighbors, friends and family. He had a very loving and giving spirit. Having a clear and sharp mind to the end, if you ever wanted to get involved in a rousing political discussion, he was the guy to go to! He welcomed and enjoyed every minute of it. Coming from a very close family, they all enjoyed each other immensely. Whenever he was visited by his brothers and sisters, the same childhood stories were told over and over, and each time the same robust laughter was heard from all! After moving to Billings he worked for the Malcom Long family as their yard and garden maintenance man for many years. Robert was preceded in death by infant sister, Virgina; parents; sister Roberta Norton, nephew Matt Maupin. He is survived by his wife Betty; daughters, Randy Kay (Wade) Powell, Mary Loree (Loren) Hinebauch, Robin Renee Maupin; 8 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters, 3 brothers, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dad was a very proud patriot, husband and father. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com Cemetery: burial following at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Visitation will be 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Friday at Dahl Funeral Chapel. Service: Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 18, 2014 at Valley Christian Church, 1603 St. John Ave., Billings, 59102.