Robert Higson, 95

Robert “Bob” Francis Higson, 95.

Bob Higson, a life-long resident of Columbia Falls, passed away at 95 years on Feb. 4, 2023 at The Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

He was born in Columbia Falls on Dec. 13, 1927 to Mae Frances Greve and Cornelius Monroe Grayson. He was raised by his mother and adoptive father Harry Higson. Bob had three siblings that preceded him in death, Chuck Higson, John Higson and Liz Higson-Ramey. Their family home was on the ground where Glacier Bank now stands.

Bob was a CFHS graduate of 1946. His 1944 CF Wildcat football team won the right to play Fort Benton for the state championship game. Due to war they were not able to travel and play the game. In lieu of playing they were each given silver footballs which Bob always held dear.

He joined the Army in 1946 and served proudly in the cleanup of Pearl Harbor and in Korea and Japan. Upon honorable discharge he returned to Montana to work on construction of Hungry Horse Dam. He later worked at Columbia Falls Aluminum for 37 years. He was a member of the iron workers union.

Bob was an avid fisherman, holding the state record for smallmouth bass for 13 years. He also enjoyed traveling and bowling. He would talk fondly of trips he made with his bowling friends. He was an avid CF Wildcat and Montana Grizzly fan to his core.

On Sept. 3, 1997, he married Patricia Kelley Blades. Bob did not have children of his own but treated Patricia’s children as his own.

Survivors include his wife Patricia Higson, stepchildren, Marcia Shortell, Bruce and Cindy Dubois and Rick and Rita Blades; also, nieces and nephews on the Higson side of his family.

At Bob’s request there will not be a memorial or graveside service. He will be buried at Glacier Memorial Gardens in Kalispell. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for Bob’s family.