Robert E. "Bob" Linderman

HAMILTON - Robert Eugene "Bob" Linderman passed away peacefully on February 20, 2022 in Missoula, Montana. Bob was born on October 18, 1933 to Maurice Clyde and Ruth (Seaman) Linderman in Los Angeles, California. He was 88 years old.

Bob grew up in North Hollywood, CA and spent most of his spare time at the beach. Through his friends, he met and married Margaret Lou Whitehead in 1954, later divorced (1972). Together they had 4 children.

Even at a young age, Bob’s attention to detail was impeccable. Many days it took him an hour to walk the two blocks to school because he stopped to look at every little thing along the way, often arriving late. This was an early manifestation of a curious mind that would create masterful works of art throughout his life. His early artwork in pastel (chalk) and watercolor were of accomplished detail and he often made them just to give as gifts to friends and family.

In 1945, at the age of 12, Bob drafted plans for a teardrop trailer and helped his father build it with leftover airplane materials from the nearby Northrop facility. The trailer was used for camping over the next 3 generations including annual trips to Camp Wishon, a family favorite, in the Sequoia National Forest.

Bob attended Woodbury College and studied art for a semester before entering the Air Force during the Korean War. While stationed at Luke AFB in Arizona he designed the eagle wing graphics for logos, helmets and F-80 jets for the USAF "Thunderbirds". While at Ladd AFB in Alaska he painted detailed topographical maps for the air traffic control boards as well as all the promotional graphics. After his 4 years in the military he attended the prestigious Art Center School in Los Angeles before going into several commercial advertising businesses. Bob was a partner in an Ad Agency that grew to become the largest in Orange County. He won several national awards for his work.

An avid camper, Bob loved the outdoors, fishing, photography, doodling, and observing nature and life around him. He was also a master at shooting the breeze around the campfire or in a coffee shop. He actually had breakfast, lunch and dinner all on the same ticket more than once.

In 1990, Bob retired to Hamilton, MT and was content hanging out with his brother and all their friends at the Coffee Cup Cafe solving all the world's problems, then having to do it again the next day. He loved his home overlooking the Bitterroot Mountains and resided there until his passing.

Bob had a wonderful sense of humor and was fun to be around. His children and grandchildren all have great memories with him at Camp Wishon and then later at his home in Montana. He was generous, kind, and willing to help when he was needed.

Survived by his four children, Bob (Sue), Rich (Teina), Chris, Dawn (Rod) Carroll, 8 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his brother Richard “Dick” Linderman and his parents.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude and heartfelt thanks to his neighbor Carolyn for years of assistance, care, and friendship.

A private graveside service will be held to honor him. In lieu of flowers, please consider adopting a pet or helping a stray. Arrangements are under the care of the Daly-Leach Chapel.