Robert Earl Sheley passed away June 5, 2020.  Known to family and friends as Bob — to his friends in the “Filthy Few” he was known as “The Major” — he was born in Leadville, CO September 12, 1952. 

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Donald and Margaret. 

He is survived by his sister Terry, and brothers Tom and Brian.

Bob was married twice: to Sheila, and then to Deborah.  He is survived by six children: Jason, Crystal, Evan, Russell, Elisheba and Isaac.   He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Caleb, Gabrielle, Isaiah, Evan II, Inna, Josephine, and Amon.

Bob graduated from Central High School.  Later he would serve his country in the US Army, earning an Honorable Discharge in 1974.  He spent much of his career in the mining and construction industry.  He worked at many mines across the Rocky Mountain region — he held a federal blasting license and worked across the country for about seven years — and also helped build many highways later in his career.   Bob was known as an extremely hard worker wherever he was employed.  Yet, he was also known for his quick humor and caring demeanor.  If you worked with Bob, things got done and he made your day better.

Bob was an avid outdoorsman. He spent much of his life hunting, fishing, and shooting.  Bob loved to explore nature on foot, often hiking by sight and with little help from a map. He also cared deeply about the preservation of natural places and the animals that inhabit them. Bob often said that if you visit the outdoors, you should leave no trace and try to leave it better than you found it.  Bob’s love of nature was deeply connected with his Christian faith.  He often said of his faith that it focused on everyday Christian living, and that it was most important to show your faith in how you live and treat others.

Bob spent his last years helping his brothers and sister, and teaching his children and grandchildren the lessons he had accumulated across his lifetime.  In his last days, Bob was asked what was most important to him. He said: “People. People are always worth the time and investment. People are like gems. Sometimes you pick up a ruby or a garnet and it looks one way.  Hold it up to the light and you see something different.”   

Funeral arrangements will be held through the Veterans Administration in several months time.