Robert Otto Biastoch, 75, passed away peacefully of natural causes at St. James Healthcare Sunday, March 30, 2014, in Butte.

      Bob “the Butcher” was born on Nov. 18, 1938, in Butte to Curt and Mae Biastoch.   He attended Butte area schools and graduated from Butte High where he was an all-around standout athlete and excelled in football.   After graduation, Bob attended Washington University where he continued his football career.   He was persuaded by coaches from Montana State University (GO CATS!) to return to Montana and play ball so he would be closer to the love of his life.

      Married in 1959, Patricia (Pat) Barry and Bob had four children and spent the first part of their marriage in Montana, but in 1973 took a two-week vacation to Alaska that ended up lasting almost 30 years.

      Together the two entrepreneurs owned and operated Echo Lake Lockers, a very successful family retail business, and made many friends from all parts of the world as a result and had many adventures along the way.

      In 2001, Bob and Pat retired and sold their business and returned to Montana to live in their house in Dewey.   Bob spent time fishing with family and just enjoying “the life” tinkering in his smokehouse and spoiling his bulldogs.   Bob was elected to the Butte Sports Hall of Fame in 2010 for football, and the Montana State University Hall of Fame in 2012.   Although he had a reputation for being a tough guy, those who truly knew him saw more bark than bite.   His grandchildren loved to sit in his lap and crawl all over this gentle giant.   If heaven weren’t so far away …

      Bob is survived by his wife, Pat;   daughter, Terri Ellis and husband, Randy;   son, Chuck Biastoch and wife, Valarie;   daughter, Darlene Biastoch and companion, Tommy Woodford;   son, Kevin Biastoch and wife, Maria;   seven grandchildren;   and nine great-grandchildren.

      Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother, Bea, and his brother, Kurt.   Cremation has taken place and a private ceremony will take place at a later date.

      Special thanks to the Crest, Big Sky Assisted Living, Rocky Mountain Hospice and St James Healthcare for taking such excellent care of our husband, father and grandfather.

      Condolences may be sent to Pat Biastoch at 2222 Argyle, Butte 59701.

      Axelson Alternative Cremation is privileged to serve the Biastoch family.

      Express condolences at www.mtstandard.com/obits.