Robert 'Bob' James Hardy, 78

Robert (Bob) James Hardy, 78, joined his Heavenly Father on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Bob was born in Butte, Mont., on Jan. 15, 1945, to parents Les and Opal Hardy. He was one of four children. He went to senior high school in Billings, Mont., and attended Montana State and Eastern Montana College.

He worked for American Appliance — owned and operated Hardy Builders Construction Company in Billings, Mont. After moving to North Idaho, worked in cabinetry and kitchen design for many years. After retiring, Bob found passion and his place in service, volunteering his time at Real Life Ministries for the Benevolence Program, which helps support those in need. 

Bob was an avid golfer, and fisherman, and enjoyed hunting with his son, Chris Hardy, and best friend Tom Crawford. He was an artisan by nature and created beautiful furniture for many. Above all, he loved his wife, children and grandchildren. His river property brought him peace, joy and many other adventures. Bob was a Godly husband, father, grandpa, brother and son. He loved his wife more than anything in this world. He took pride and leadership in being a father and grandfather to his three children and eight grandchildren. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Les and Opal Hardy. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn (Cookie) Hardy; his brother and sister-in-law, Les and Kay Hardy; his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Charlie Donnes; and his sister, Nancy Hardy. He is also survived by his son and wife, Chris and Toni Hardy; his daughter and husband, Amy and Joe Wilson; his daughter, Melissa Hardy Sampson; his eight grandchildren: Trinity, Logan and Calista Wilson; Elizabeth, Ethan and Elliott Hardy; Rylan and Josh Sampson; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for all the love, support and prayers from each and every one of our friends and family. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Real Life Ministries Benevolence Program, or Schneidmiller Hospice House (2290 W. Prairie Ave. Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815).

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Real Life Christian Ministries — Coeur d’Alene (1701 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814). Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Please visit Bob’s memorial and sign his online guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.