Robarts L. Proper, Bart, 94
Bart Proper was a son, a soldier, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, and a friend. He was the best son, the best soldier, the best husband, the best father, the best grandfather, the best great-grandfather, and the best friend.
On January 4, 2014, heaven welcomed not only a gentleman, but a gentle man, when Robarts Learned Proper (94) passed away peacefully in Coeurd’Alene, Idaho.
Bart was born to Benjamin and Harriet Proper in San Francisco, CA, on May 26, 1919. He graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science and Master’s Degree in Pharmacy. He commenced his military career in 1941 as a medic in the 45th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army, proudly serving in the European Theater during WWll.
In 1944 Bart met and married Mary Hibbert of Indianapolis, IN. After the war he joined the U.S. Public Health Service. During his service of 35 years, he was assigned to numerous duty stations throughout the country. Together, Bart and Mary raised six children. In 1975 he retired in Billings, MT, with the rank of Captain.
After his retirement Bart and Mary enjoyed RV camping, visiting children and grandchildren in various parts of the country until Mary’s death in 1984.
Bart was then fortunate to meet Barbara Davenport. Both shared a love of Coeur d’Alene, ID, and were married at the Blackwell House in 1988. Later that year they moved to Coeur d’Alene and called it home for 25 years. Bart not only enriched Barb’s life, but also that of her two children. The family has always felt that Barb’s love for Bart and wonderful care was the reason Bart’s later years were so fulfilling
and happy. During their marriage, Bart and Barb enjoyed numerous trips to Europe, with Germany always being a favorite destination. Along with travel, Bart loved music, fishing, fly tying, camping, painting, reading and cooking. Bart always believed that “It’s five o’clock somewhere.”
Bart is survived by his wife, Barbara Proper, and children: Sharon Alfers (Herb), Donna Galano, Linda Cook (David), Steven Proper, Tom Proper, and Janet Drinkwater (Gale); and stepchildren Tom Davenport (Kristina) and Christie Villano. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and, of course, his beloved kitties. Bart will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.
A “Celebration of Life” is planned for this spring over the Memorial Day weekend in Billings, MT. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that any donations be made to Hospice of North Idaho, 9493 North Government Way, Hayden, ID, 83835; (208)772-7994. Please visit Bart’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com. Yates Funeral Homes, Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho, has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements.