Robert J. Vawter

Posted

(Jan. 3, 2001)

Memorial services were held Tuesday at Ballard Funeral Home in Cody for former Powell resident Robert J. Vawter, 85, who died Wednesday, Jan. 3 in the West Park Hospital emergency room in Cody of pneumonia.

He was born prematurely on Oct. 31, 1915, near Meeteetse to A.O. and Edith M. Potts Vawter. The family moved to Powell in 1921, and Bob attended schools in Powell, graduating from Powell High School in 1933.

He worked at various jobs, including the Project Telephone Company until 1943. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 until 1945. Following his discharge, he went to work for Mountain Bell Telephone Co. in Cheyenne. He was employed by the phone company in various capacities in different places for 31 years. He spent several years as a lineman in Yellowstone Park, then worked in Cody until his retirement.

He married Esther Williams Campbell on Dec. 18, 1959, in Cody. She died on Dec. 25, 1994. Following her death, he lived with a companion in the family home. He moved to West Park Long Term Care Center when his health worsened.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and boating and the time spent at the cabin above Meeteetse. He enjoyed children, his family and friends.

Survivors include his twin sister, Ruth V. Moore of Powell, and sisters Mary V. Duggleby of Cody and Dorothy V. Reed of Bellingham, Wash.; six stepchildren, Bernard Campbell of Eau Claire, Wisc., James Campbell of Powell, Paul Campbell of Cody, Donna Lee Cody of Meeteetse, Barbara Lundvall of Cody and Ora Mae Gonzales of Gardnerville, Nev.; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife and parents; a brother, A.L. (Mike) Vawter; two sisters, Marjorie V. Larsen and Rachel V. Gentle; and a stepson, William Campbell.

Those wishing to make memorial donations may do so to Cody Senior Center, 613 16th St., Cody, WY 82414.

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