Robert “Bob” Lloyd Quam, age 91, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, in Helena, Montana, surrounded by family, love, and laughter until the very end.

Born on May 11, 1935, in Plentywood, Montana, Bob lived a life marked by hard work, determination, service, and an unwavering devotion to his family. Throughout his 91 years, he embraced new challenges and opportunities, building a career and legacy that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and desire to improve the lives of others.

Bob proudly served in the Montana National Guard and went on to build a diverse and accomplished career. Over the course of his professional life, he worked in a variety of fields, including real estate, right-of-way acquisition, and insurance. He also served with the Montana Department of Health, where he played an important role in expanding emergency services accessibility across the state. When his daughter Peggy was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes Bob realized how lacking the resources were and he was instrumental in establishing the Montana Diabetes Association, creating a lasting legacy of support, advocacy, and education for Montanans and their families living with diabetes.

While his professional achievements were many, Bob's greatest pride and joy was his family. He fiercely loved his family, and they were the driving force behind everything he did. Whether through his work, his guidance, or the example he set, Bob was motivated by a desire to create opportunities and a better future for those he loved. He took immense pride in the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them.

Family gatherings were among Bob's happiest moments. Some of his family's favorite memories include trips to Spring Meadow Lake, afternoons spent on the pontoon boat or in his backyard, and baking Thanksgiving pies together. These cherished traditions reflected what mattered most to him—being surrounded by the people he loved. Bob also had a gift for memorable one-liners and catchphrases that could make people laugh, offer perspective, or simply brighten the day. His words and wit will continue to echo in the memories of those who knew and loved him.

Bob was also known for his sharp wit, competitive spirit, and love of cribbage. A formidable opponent at the cribbage board, he approached every game with enthusiasm, determination, and the firm belief that there was always time for one more rematch. While he valued fair play, his family will fondly remember that he was far more gracious in victory than in defeat. In fact, Bob often proved that sportsmanship came much more naturally when he was the one winning. His humor, storytelling, and ability to bring family together around the table created memories that will be cherished by those who knew him.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Henry “Hank” Quam; his brothers, Paul Quam and Don Quam; and his children, Douglas Quam and Peggy Howard.

He is survived by his daughters, Kathleen "Kathy" Waterhouse (Brian) and Amy Quam Skinner; his son-in-law, Rod Howard; grandchildren Christopher, Sarah, Katelyn (Brandon), Matthew (Cassandra), Christian, Jennifer, Stephanie (David), Joshua (Charlotte), Karlissa, and Jordin; numerous great-grandchildren; many beloved nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of cherished friends who became family.

Bob will be remembered for his generous heart, steadfast character, strong work ethic, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the many lives he touched throughout his career. He will be deeply missed, yet the values he instilled, the love he shared, and the example he set will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

Those wishing to pay their respects to Bob and celebrate a life well lived are invited to join family and friends on August 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in his backyard at 520 Madison Avenue.

His life will be remembered not by the years he lived, but by the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the difference he made.