Robert M. Taft

Robert (Bob) M. Taft passed away November 25, 2015 at his home in Moyie Springs, Idaho. A Memorial service will be held December 12 at 3 pm in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bonners Ferry.

Bob was born June 4, 1940 in Takoma Park, MD to Robert and Sarah (Merkle) Taft. In the mid 1940’s they moved to Upper Lake, CA where he grew up. After high school graduation, Bob joined the Army. After basic training, he volunteered for Sentry Dog School and was assigned to guard Nike Hercules Missile Sites. Bob had a great affection for dogs and thought if you did not have one you were missing out. It was during this time he met and married the love of his life, Mary Sue Bishop and they married September 7, 1961. He was always quick to say “Mary Sue is my greatest positive influence.” 

In 1974 the Salt talks between Russia and America eliminated all Nike Sites and Bob was then assigned to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, CA as an armament repairer on tanks and artillery. Bob loved the army and was proud of his service. He retired in 1987 as a Chief Warrant Officer.

After retirement Bob started a second career in Real Estate and over time he was licensed in CA, NV, and ID. He enjoyed his new career and found it challenging and satisfying.

Bob was active in Rotary (past president), treasurer for the United Way, he was on the Barstow Community Hospital Board, Chairman of the Military Affairs Committee and recipient of many community service awards.

In 2004 Bob and Mary Sue discovered Bonners Ferry, ID where they built a home after retirement.  

Bob was a person that genuinely loved life. In the 60’s and 70’s he raced motorcycles in the desert, in the 80’s and 90’s he ran long distance events, and through the 90’s up to 2005  he enjoyed white water rafting as his favorite past time. 

At the age of 8, Bob received his first fly rod and the love of fly fishing stayed with him.

Bob is preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother Needham. Bob is survived by his wife Mary Sue; sister-in-laws Margaret, Gail, Dail and many nieces and nephews.