Robert G. "Bob" Kalb

Robert G. “Bob” Kalb, 83, life time Sandpoint resident and long time businessman, passed away, Wednesday, April 27, 2011 in Libby, MT. Memorial services for Bob will be conducted 11:00AM, Saturday, May 7, 2011 at Coffelt Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Rick Alkire, officiating. Private inurnment will take place in Pinecrest Memorial Park. There will be a reception and time of sharing at the Eagles Lodge, 1511 John Hudon Lane, Sandpoint, Idaho immediately following the service. Bob was born August 16, 1927 in Sandpoint, Idaho the son of George and Ethel Kalb. He attended schools in Sandpoint and graduated Sandpoint High School in 1945. He served in the US Navy aboard the USS Iowa at the end of World War II. He also served 2 years in the Army at Fort Benning, GA during the Korean Conflict. Following the war he earned a B.S. in Business from the University of Idaho. On June 10, 1956 he married Geneva Arlene Perry in Sandpoint. Following graduation from the University he worked briefly for Safeway and later served as the assistant manager of the Ben Franklin Store in downtown Sandpoint before purchasing the Bootery which he continued to operate until 1979. He then co-operated the store with his son Steve Kalb until 1989. Bob has always been active in civic and community affairs throughout his life. He served two terms on the Sandpoint City Council, from 1969-1972 was on the State of Idaho Fish and Game Commission, serving as chairman in 1972. He was on the Board of Directors and a past president of the Sandpoint Kiwanis Club, was active in the Elks Lodge and served as exalted ruler in 1984-1985. He was also a long time member of the North Idaho Rainbow Chasers RV Group, and was an active member of the Bonner County Sportsman Association. Bob attended the Presbyterian Church, the Christian Church, and the Dover Community Church. He was an avid outdoorsman: enjoyed backpacking, camping, hunting, and fishing. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Arlene; his sons and their families: Doug & Pauline Kalb, Steve & Denise Kalb, Jeff Kalb; his grandchildren: Robbie Kalb, Stephanie Kalb, Paul Kalb, Bradley Kalb, Angela Kalb, Melissa Kinzel , Rosie Kalb, and Dustin Kalb; and by 3 great grandchildren: Justin, Kirsti, and Aiden. He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 brother Ernest. The family suggests memorials in Bob’s name be made to the Dover Church, P.O. Box 126, Dover, Idaho 83825.