Robert Montbriand

Robert Montbriand, of Naples, Florida, died peacefully with his family at his side, on January 18, 2018 at the age of 88. He is survived by his wife, JoAnn Caryl Montbriand (née Knaeble) – they were together for 66 years; his children, Renée Jensen (Michael Sr.) of White Bear Lake, MN and Joel Montbriand, MD (Susan Goodnature) of Boulder, Colorado, 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law, Mary Prince (Shawn Grimsley), and Jeanie Trudeau (Dan). He was preceded in death by his mother Bernice Montbriand, his brother Ray Cronk, and sisters Diane Schmidt, Darlene Hiebert and Lynne Molacek. 
Born in Minneapolis, MN on November 26, 1929, Bob moved to Tenstrike, Minnesota with his family, shortly thereafter. He entered the US Army at age 16 during WWII, was stationed in Kyushu, Japan, and promoted to the rank of Technical Sargent prior to discharge. After returning to the U.S., he and JoAnn married in 1954. 
He started his life-long career with the Northern Pacific Railway (which became the Burlington Northern), as a telegraph operator and retired as an Assistant Vice President. His career was marked by innovation, mentoring and compassion, having received the “Good Guy Award” from the Minnesota Farmers Union for creating a no-cost solution to farmers by delivering hay from the west coast to Midwest via rail during a drought, which saved many family farms. His 42-year career took them to Littlefork, MN, Fargo, ND, Detroit, MI, White Bear Lake, MN and finally Keller, TX. Bob and JoAnn retired to Naples, FL and summered in Bemidji, MN. 
Bob never passed up an opportunity to teach himself how to do something in which he had an interest. He was active in amateur radio, electronics, auto repair, photography, boating, weather watching, and service to his church. He was a long-time member of Emanuel Lutheran Church of Naples. He was a member of the American Society of Traffic and Transportation, Naples Sail and Power Squadron, Naples Radio Club, Bemidji Radio Club, Quarter Century Wireless Club, Eagles Club, Elks Club, and the American Legion.
Bob was a wonderful family man, a patient mentor, and a humble person. He always took time to help others, a man who truly was the “good guy” based on his actions in all aspects of his life. He was father, uncle, and grandpa to many in his extended family. He will be remembered and missed by all. 
A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 777 Mooring Line Drive, Naples, FL 34102, at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 27, 2018. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to a charity of your preference. 

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