Robert Luther Gilley

Robert Luther Gilley “Bob”, age 95, died on December 30, 2020, at the Bruce McCandless State Veteran’s Home - Florence, CO. Robert was born on June 17, 1925, at the family home in the farming community north of Boone, CO, to parents James Luther Gilley and Veatura Ann (Carter) Gilley. He attended a one-room school in the community and completed his education at Boone High School, graduating in 1944. Before he graduated, he was drafted into the Army, and soon after graduation Robert was at Camp Fannin, TX for boot camp. After boot camp, Robert served in the European Theater during WWII. He was an excellent marksman, earning his sharpshooter badge. Robert was awarded the Bronze Star for his service. While on leave, Robert and Thelma Lee Runyan were married on Aug 2, 1945, (Married 44 years). After his tour of duty was completed, he returned to the farming community “north of Boone”, and there the couple purchased their first plot of land, started farming, and began their family.

While attending a chapel service at boot camp Robert placed his faith in Jesus as his personal Savior. While living in the farming community the family attend Highland Baptist Church.

Robert was an excellent farmer and rancher, using his knowledge and skill to improve farming practices. In addition to farming, Robert was a Field Representative for Garden State Bean Co. in South and North Dakota. He mentored many farmers in the cultivation of pinto beans.

Robert enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a Master Mason, a member of the Ashlar Lodge No. 115, A.F. & A.M. of Fowler, CO, and he was conferred the 32 degree of the Scottish Rite Freemasonry at the Rocky Mountain Consistory, Denver CO.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James Luther Gilley – 1975 and Veatura Ann Carter (Gilley) – 1986, by brothers, Edward Gilley – 2011, Donald Gilley – 2012, a grandson, Richard Troy Gilley –1986 and a great-granddaughter, Megan Ann Gilley – 2008. He is survived by children: Richard (Dian) Gilley - N. Richland Hills, TX, Carol (Larry) Hinkle – Pueblo, CO, Tom (Jeanne) Gilley – Greeley, CO, Tim (Cheryl) Gilley – Eau Claire, WI, and Sherry (Jim) Wold – Huron, SD. He is also survived by grandchildren: Koleen (Terry) Dupuy - Hurst, TX, Carla (David) Autrey - Parker, CO, Brian (Jessica) Hinkle – Pueblo, CO, Michael (Deb) Hinkle – Pueblo, CO, Kristopher (Mirriah) Gilley - Windsor, CO, Camila (Jay) Gonzales - Trinidad, CO, Kendra (Roger) Hemminghaus - River Hills, WI, Nathan (Rebecca) Gilley - Belle Fourche, SD, Rebekah (Aaron) Chamberlain, N Hudson, WI, Joel Wold – Huron, SD, Jared Wold - Denver, CO, and Rachel (Matt) Wold-Ashley – Sioux Falls, SD, 26 great and great-great-grandchildren and a brother James (Karen) Gilley - Windsor, CO.

A private military burial will be held at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, CO. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, Jan 23 @ 10:00 AM - with a lunch to follow.

Location: Kersey Community Church, 26221 County Rd 53 Kersey, Colorado 80644

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to:

• Highland Baptist Church

5237 Highland Church Rd, Boone, CO 81025

• Bruce McCandless State Veterans Home

903 Moore Drive, Florence, CO 81226