Robert Lee Huckabay

Robert (Bob) Lee Huckabay 68, of Plains Montana passed away March 11, 2012 surrounded by his loving family who had cared for him since he was paralyzed in September of 2010. He put up a courageous fight for as long as he was able. Bob was born in Spokane WA, on November 6, 1943 to Velma Perrigo and was raised by his step father Vernie. Bob also joined step brothers: Robert, Wesley, Eugene, Victor and Willie Perrigo. Bob lived most of his younger life in Idaho. He later moved to Spokane where he met the love and soul mate of his life, Lavon Charlotte Peterson. They were married May 7, 1965. From this marriage three children were born: Keith Huckabay (Bonnie) of Dayton WA, Lynnann Huckabay (Brian), and Nawatha Campbell (Prentiss) of Plains Montana. Bob is also survived by his grand children: Katiann Huckabay of Spokane WA, Christopher Campbell (Krista) of Colorado Springs CO, Kelli Nance of Hot Springs MT, Austin Campbell, Aaron Campbell, and Calvin Campbell all of Plains Montana. Great Grand children: Alexa Campbell, Ryan Campbell, and Tegan Campbell all of Colorado. Other special loved ones include John and Jean Goughnor, Steve Stublefield of Clarkston WA, Larry Topp of Coeur d’ alene ID, adopted daughter Libby Snook and family of Kalispell MT, and grand-daughter Cynthia Person of Billings, MT. Bob moved his family to the beautiful mountains of Montana, and has called Montana home for several years. He was a very active man up until his illness. He enjoyed tinkering with cars, working on the wrecker, traveling, camping, fishing, getting firewood with his grand kids, gardening and cooking. Any activity his grandkids participated in, he was their #1 fan no matter what. He was an active member of swim team for his grandkids even though he himself never learned how to swim. He loved to travel through-out the state and met many friends along the way. Although all his loved ones will miss his helping hands, it is his grandkids who will miss his loving heart. Bob had been disabled for the better part of his life, so he was very involved in family life. Bob was known for his jokes and pranks and there was never a dull moment in his presence. Even until the last he was always getting someone good. His grandkids describe him as "the best grandpa any kid could have". He was heavily involved and supported his children and grandkids in any activity or life choice, even if he didn't always agree. As one individual described him, " he was one of a kind, gruff on the outside and a big teddy bear on the inside." He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bob appeared as Santa Claus to head starts, schools, children and adults with disabilities and grandkids for over 25 years. His last appearance was only two years ago and Bob was so passionate about bringing true joy that he wished to continue from his wheelchair. He is proceeded in death by his mother, step father, brothers Robert and Wesley, niece Starla, and his mother and father-in-law. The family wishes to thank all of the community members who have helped out and visited throughout his and his families time of need. The family is very grateful for home health and Hospice services. Bob really looked forward to Laura Lanfer’s visits. A special thanks to the Plains ambulance crew and Clarkfork Valley Hospital staff for the special care he received. Special thanks to John Sheriden from the ambulance crew for going so far as to check not only on Bob, but his entire family. There will be a memorial service to celebrate Bob’s life on March 24 at 2pm at the First Church of God in Plains. Family and friends are invited to sign his online guest book at www.coffeltfuneral.com