Robert Sorweide

On November 1st, Robert Kenneth Sorweide, 88, of Joseph, Oregon spent his final day. As per his wishes, he was cremated and ashes will be distributed at a later date.


Robert was born in Potlatch, Idaho on March 21, 1924 to John and Ethel Sorweide. He joined brothers Harold, John, and Art as well as sisters Mabel, Claire and Lois. All are deceased. His elementary education started in Potlatch, Idaho followed by high school in Sprague, Washington. While in the service, Bob's studies were in the College of Engineering. He served his country in World War II and was instrumental in the building of the Manilla Airport located in the Philippines. Once out of the service, Bob returned to a ranch in Cheney, Washington where he helped raise registered cattle, wheat, hay, turkeys, and built roads for neighbors. Here he met and married his future wife, Wanda Denney, on February 18, 1944. They were married 68 years. In 1947, the first child Sharon Lee was born followed by Kenneth Luane in 1948, Patricia Kaye in 1952, Terri Rae in 1956, and Renae Ann in 1962. Bob ranched on Prairie Creek for five years. He then became a Caterpillar operator for William Dougherty where he worked for 27 years. Other achievements include receiving a letter of commendation from the U.S.F.S. recognizing his abilities with the Caterpillar, fighting fire, and no trace logging practices. He stepped out if his comfort zone and built a lovely family home in Joseph, where he loved to garden, hunt, fish, and attend church. His later years were lost to Dementia, spending his last two years at Vista House in La Grande, Oregon.

He leaves his wife Wanda, five children, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and a host of friends. His ready smile will be missed by all.

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