Memorial services for Robert D. "Bob" Johnson, age 81, of Lemmon, SD, formerly of Missoula, MT, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at the Prince of Peace Chapel of the Evanson Jensen Funeral Home in Lemmon, SD, with Pastor Florence Hoff, officiating.

Robert Duane Laughlin was born on April 21, 1937, in Park River, ND.  His mother Christine later remarried and he was adopted by his step-father Ruben Johnson.  He went by the name Bob and often told stories about his life as a child.  Bob had a great work ethic, even as a kid.  He worked hard in school and on the local farms.  In his off time he loved to do crazy stunts with cars and go off the local homemade ski jump, affectionately named "Suicide Hill".  Bob's ski team was invited to ski in Canada and he was very excited to participate in that, and to also experience the Canadian hospitality.

Bob spent two years with the local National Guard and then     entered into the US Navy where he proudly served our country.  He received many medals and commendations including four good    conduct awards.  His tours included foreign fields such as the       Philippines, Australia, Newfoundland and numerous stateside bases.

On December 24, 1959, Bob married the love of his life, Cleo Bailly, who faithfully stayed by his side for 59 years.  Two children were born to this marriage, Mary Johnson (Missoula, MT) and Sam Johnson (Laurel, MT).  On April 30, 1976 Bob retired from the Navy to settle down with his family in Missoula, MT.  Retirement didn't slow Bob down as he pursued many other occupations.  He excelled in electronics and computers and could troubleshoot any problem over the phone.

He soon discovered the joys of Montana and that is where he was truly happiest.  Bob loved to camp, fish, hunt and target practice.  He spent many hours just exploring the mountains with his family and his yellow lab "Sunshine".  As happens with time, Missoula grew and became too big for Bob, so Bob and Cleo moved to Lemmon, SD, in 2007.  They hated to leave Montana, but soon discovered some of the same joys in Lemmon.  They spent many hours driving the back roads, visiting lakes, watching the deer, Canadian geese and prairie dogs.  Bob had a great sense of humor.  He loved to help others and was available all the time.  He loved his family and sharing all the adventures.

Bob passed away on Thursday evening, March 21, 2019 at the West River Regional Medical Center in Hettinger, ND.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Cleo, of Lemmon, SD; son, Sam, Laurel, MT and daughter Mary, Missoula, MT; brother, Tom (Debi) Johnson, Richland, WA; sister, Lorie (Ron) Berndt, Bismarck, ND; aunt, Alice Midboe, Park River, ND; and numerous cousins.

Bob will be missed by his military friends and many friends he made over the years.