Robert Ellis Penton, 85, of Pinedale, Wyoming, passed away on June 14, 2026, just days before his 86th birthday.

Bob was born on June 23, 1940, in Soda Springs, Idaho, to John B. Penton and Dorothy (Visokey) Penton. His life was marked by hard work, determination, humor, and a deep love for family and friends. At the young age of 14, Bob left home and went to work for Ben Roberts and then the LU Sheep Company. Family members often shared the story that Bob showed up looking for something to eat and simply wouldn't leave, so they put him to work. It was the beginning of a lifelong reputation for persistence, grit, and a willingness to do whatever needed to be done.

In his younger years, Bob worked alongside Corky Facinelli, ranching in the Red Canyon area until he was drafted into the United States Army. He proudly served from 1963 to 1965. Following his military service, he returned to Wyoming and worked a variety of jobs in the Lander and later the Pinedale area. Over the years, he worked for the Town of Pinedale, cut wood to earn a living, and built a reputation as a dependable and hardworking member of the community.

Always entrepreneurial, Bob later purchased the Honey Truck business and the water and sewer thawing business from Ray Rissler. He also owned and operated the local laundromat for many years, serving the community he loved.

On June 1, 1968, Bob married Darlene Pryde Roberts in Lander, Wyoming. With that marriage, he happily embraced one of the most important roles of his life—that of father to Darlene's young sons, Jack and Shane. Bob loved the boys as his own and took great pride in helping raise them. He quickly took on the role of the father he didn't have to be. Together, Bob and Darlene built a life centered on family, hard work, and shared memories, creating a bond that would remain strong throughout the years. This bond carried on into his role as a grandfather, his grandkids are fortunate enough to have loving memories of Bob and were greatly influenced by him in so many ways.

Bob enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies throughout his life. In his younger years, he loved roping and spending time around horses. He later became active in shooting competitions and black powder shooting. Fishing and golf became favorite pastimes in his later years. He especially enjoyed spending time with friends and family and looked forward to prairie dog shooting trips with McGinnis.

Those who knew Bob will remember his quick wit and sense of humor. He loved telling jokes, teasing friends, and finding ways to make people laugh. More than anything, he loved his family and treasured the time spent with them. His family will forever miss the unique meals with Gramps — whether that be prariedog stew (Jack's favorite), peanut butter grilled cheese sandwiches, or any meal prepared with his freeze-dried vegetables and ribeyes that were most likely from the 1960s. Brother Butch said his favorite stories with Bob are probably not acceptable to be written in an obituary.

Bob is survived by his sisters, Linda Smith and Pat Irvine; brother Butch; his step-sons, Jack (Vera) Roberts and Shane (Jeannie) Roberts; his grandchildren, Luke Roberts (Maddie Dugan), Cody (Holly) Roberts, Jodi (Josh) Auerbach, Jacob Roberts, John (Courtney) Stach, and Guy (Natalie) Roberts; fifteen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Darlene Pryde Penton; his parents, John B. and Dorothy Penton; his brother, Bill Penton and his sister Nancy Smith.

Bob will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his independent spirit, his sense of humor, and his unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the stories that will continue to be shared for generations.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday June 23, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Pinedale Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Bob's life and legacy.