Gerald R Robbins

Gerald “Gerry” Ray RobbinsOctober 31, 1948 – April 6, 2026

Gerald “Gerry” Ray Robbins, age 77, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026, at his home in Trout Creek, Montana.

Gerry was born on October 31, 1948, in Astoria, Oregon, the oldest of four children born to Chester and Barbara (Larson) Robbins. He grew up in Jewell, Oregon, and spent time in northern California before moving to Trout Creek at the age of 15. He graduated from Noxon High School and went on to attend the University of Montana while serving in the Army National Guard.

In 1970, Gerry began his career with the U.S. Forest Service, where he worked for 36 years before retiring in 2006. During that time, he worked in Timber Stand Improvement, fought forest fires, and served wherever he was needed. He planted and supervised the planting of over a million trees in the Kootenai National Forest, leaving a lasting impact on the land he cared deeply about. For the final 20 years of his career, he served as a Law Enforcement and Investigations Officer for the Cabinet Ranger District. He was known for being the first to step up and help others, a man of honesty, integrity, and strong work ethic, who remained humble and kind throughout his life.

Gerry was deeply committed to his community. He served for many years on the Trout Creek Water Board and played a key role in relocating the town’s water tower “up on the hill,” improving both water supply and pressure for the community. He also owned and operated Gerry’s Small Engine shop on Pine Street in Trout Creek and became a dealer for Husqvarna chainsaws. Known for his quick wit and dry sense of humor, his shop was as much a gathering place as it was a business—where stories were shared as often as repairs were made.

An avid hunter and a great shot, Gerry took pride in providing for his family and rarely had an empty freezer. He found joy in the outdoors and in the simple, steady life he built in the place he called home.

Above all, Gerry loved his family. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his steady presence, and the example he set through a life of hard work, generosity, and integrity.

Gerry is survived by his wife, Susan Robbins of Trout Creek, Montana; his children, Kathy (Chris Martin) Fowler of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Mike (Jen) Robbins of Missoula, Montana, Brent Robbins of Trout Creek, Montana, and Matthew (Chelsey) Robbins of Ritchey, Montana; and his four grandchildren, Johanna Guelli, Jade Robbins, Carson Robbins, and Codi Robbins. He is also survived by his sister, Teri Hathaway of Trout Creek, Montana; his brother, John (Terrie) Robbins of Modesto, California; and his sister, Dorothy Mitchel of Trout Creek, Montana.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester “Chet” and Barbara Robbins.

In accordance with his wishes, no formal service will be held, and cremation has taken place. The family is planning a celebration of life the first week in July.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Association.