Robert Eugene Vannatter (88) longtime St. Maries, ID resident passed away in Idaho Falls on January 3, 2024.  He was born to Charles and Anna Vannatter on September 22, 1935, in Tekoa, WA.

Bob grew up in the Tekoa and Tensed areas graduating from high school there.  Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army serving 2 years.  He married Geraldine “Jerry” Vannatter on May 21, 1955, in Coeur d’ Alene, ID.

Bob worked in the woods for various logging contractors over the years.  He then went to work for the Idaho Department of Lands, retiring after 20+ years with the agency.  This was the perfect career choice for Bob as he would rather spend time outdoors than indoors; however, if you were to catch him indoors, he could be found playing cards, specifically cribbage, a game he taught his children, grandchildren, and some great-grandchildren.  He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt, fish, trap, cut wood, or shoot his guns. 

Bob is survived by his children Wendel Vannatter, Paul Vannatter, and Rebecca Pugh; 6 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Jerry; brothers Lavern and Les Vannatter; sister Shirley Brown; and sons Charles and Walter Vannatter. 

At Bob’s request there will be no formal services.  His request was a party during the summer playing Ray Steven’s “The Streak” and his family plans to fulfill those wishes.