Robert “Bob” Obert, 90, of Stanley, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Edgewood Vista Assisted Living in Minot, North Dakota.
Robert Wayne Obert, known to most as “Bob or Bobby”, was born in Crosby, North Dakota on May 1, 1935 to Donald and Bertha Obert. He was their only child and grew up in Powers Lake, North Dakota where he became a beloved figure in the community, lifelong car enthusiast and a star on the basketball court.
After graduating, Bob served with the US Army at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Bob’s career began in the automotive world, where his lifelong passion for cars took center stage. In the early 1960’s he owned Oberts Automart in Powers Lake, selling used cars, and Yamaha and Honda motorcycles. Later he moved on to become District Manager for Yamaha in Washington, North Dakota, and Montana. In 1975, he founded Oberts Town and Country Motors in Stanley, North Dakota until 1989. His enthusiasm for cars- especially his favorite the 1951 Mercury was contagious. Cars were not only his business but his passion! He loved driving them, selling them and especially making “the deal”.
Bob was married to Kay Swedlund of Velva, North Dakota from 1955 to 1988. They raised four children; Perry, Marshall, Kimberly and Camille. He was a proud grandfather to Clay, Charlie, Kaylyn and Lily and great grandfather to Oliver. He was also a beloved “GrandDog Dad” to his many grand-pups who brought him endless joy and laughter.
Bob was raised in the Catholic faith and carried those roots with him throughout his life. His faith along with his love for family and friends provided touchstones of strength, tradition and belonging.
Known for his larger-than-life personality, Bob could spark up a conversation with anyone. He loved music especially The Lettermen, Donna Summer, Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson and had a flair for art, flashy jewelry and great hats.
Bob married Lupe Holte in 2008 with whom he shared companionship until her passing in 2024.
Bob will be remembered as a very funny, generous and loyal person who built solid relationships throughout his life. As one of his favorite Frank Sinatra songs put it, “he faced it all, and he stood tall and did it his way.”
He is survived by his children, Perry (Jodi) Obert, Marshall Obert, Kimberly (Iakovos) Tsoukalas, and Camille (Walter) Goralski; grandchildren, Clay, Charlie, Kaylyn, and Lily; great-grandchild, Oliver; as well as many lifelong friends.
Bob was proceeded in death by his parents, Donald and Bertha; and Kay and Lupe Obert.
Thank You
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to;
Opportunity Foundation in Stanley:
15 1st St. SE
Stanley, ND 58784
Or the Parkinson's Foundation;
5757 Waterford District Drive, Ste 310
Miami, FL 33126
https://www.parkinson.org/
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