Wesley F. "Wes" Robbie

With profound sadness, yet with a heart full of gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of our Husband, Dad, Papa, Mentor, Leader, and, according to a few friends, Higgins, on March 4, 2026. Although born in the city of Minneapolis on November 27, 1945, Wes, from age 2, lived in Montana, where he soon embodied the spirit of a true Montanan--resilient, hardworking, warm, and ever exploring. Wes was the cherished son of Franklin and Merle Robbie, who left an indelible imprint on his character. With the passing of Merle, The Robbie family was then blessed by Franklin’s second love, Peggy Robbie. Wes was a devoted husband to his beloved Judy for 52 wonderful years. Their journey together began when his sister Kathy and a friend, Carolyn Jameson, introduced them—a union that blossomed into a beautiful legacy of family and love. Wes is survived by Judy and their children and spouses: Scott and Mitzi, Tiffany and Adam, Kim and Shawn and Molly and Jeremiah. His welcoming spirit also brought in two more “additions” to the family, Kazuki Yamanaka and Joy Rotolo. In addition, he leaves behind his sisters, Barb and Kathy, who shared with him a lifetime of memories and adventures, and Peggy Robbie, who championed Wes’ desire to help others. His legacy continues through 10 grandchildren* and 4 great-grandchildren*, who he adored and called the ‘sunshine’ of his life. Wes dedicated his life to the noble pursuit of serving others. His career began with raising funds for The Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, a testament to his unwavering commitment to serve others. His heart, however, was drawn to the Philippines, where he began his missionary work with the International Deaf Education Association (IDEA) in Bohol, alongside his dear friend Dennis Drake. Driven by a personal calling, he later founded Fruit Bearers Ministries with Judy and Joy Rotolo on the island of Negros Oriental, based on the verse John 15:8, “If you bear much fruit, you bring glory to my Father and prove that you are His disciples.” He believed the Lord directed him “to go into the mountain, hills and far-flung places to find children with disabilities and give them my love,” through actions such as feeding the hungry (physically and spiritually), turning shacks into homes, sending children to school, making medical intervention possible, and, much more. A man of many gifts, Wes was known for his humor, determination, intelligence, and generosity. His heart was as big as his love for Jesus, family, friends and adventure. Whether he was skiing, biking, hiking, hunting, or simply enjoying a Diet Coke, a chocolate bar, pancakes (with half a bottle of maple syrup) or his legendary peanut butter and honey sandwich, he lived life to the fullest. In fact, he loved to experiment with projects ranging from concocting various kinds of handmade almond roca, which he named for each of his kids, to making soap for kids in the Philippines. Overall, he lived his life with intention and laughter. He had a playful spirit, a humble soul, and, occasionally, an attitude affectionately dubbed a ‘stinker” with his joyful teasing. Wes’ health journey was blessed by the loving care of his wife, children and grandchildren. His final days were spent surrounded by the love of his family and the tender care provided by Mountain Meadows in Leavenworth, WA. His family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to their mom Judy, who was Wes’ best friend, wife and ultimate caregiver, who lovingly nurtured him through his struggles. The family is grateful to all who adored him and spent cherished moments by his side including the Mountain Meadows team who went above and beyond in their attention, love and care. A memorial service celebrating Wes's life will be held on March 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Mountain Meadows Senior Living, 320 Park Avenue, Leavenworth, WA 98826. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fruit Bearers Ministries, a testament to Wes's enduring legacy of love and service: for Wes lived the words of Rick Warren, “The best use of life is love. The best expression of love is time. The best time to love is now." *Grandchildren include Boe Robbie, his wife Miranda and their two children Piper and Paizley; Ty Robbie and his wife Kelsie and their two children Emerson (Emmy Lou) and Miles; Corban, Jackson, and Takara Welter; Bella and Kylea Gilreath; and Olen, Jonas, and Ansel Johnson.

Tributes

Wesley F. "Wes" Robbie

November 27, 1945 - March 4, 2026