Robert James Woodward

With love in our heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Robert “Bob” James Woodward, of Meridian, Idaho, on June 23, 2025, at the age of 76. A proud veteran, devoted husband, loving father, adored grandfather, and loyal brother and friend, Bob lived a life rooted in hard work, humor, and service.

Born in York, Nebraska, on September 5, 1948, Bob spent his youth in Nebraska, South Dakota, and Idaho. His work ethic began early with a paper route where he delivered newspapers on his bike. While attending high school in Sturgis, he had a calling to serve his country.

At just 17 years old, Bob fibbed about his age to join the military, a humorous and somewhat scandalous story he enjoyed telling. He served in the Army briefly before dedicating over 30 years to the Navy.

Bob served during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Fort Marion, a memorable time with many stories he still shared years later. He was stationed around the world - Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Hawaii, and several locations stateside in many roles, such as construction machine operator, expert rifleman, and shipfitter. Bob received several commendations and medals, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and the Vietnam Service Medal - Bronze Star. Bob proudly retired from the Naval Reserves in 1997.

Bob continued his legacy of dedication and craftsmanship as a Project Estimator at the Ewing Company in Boise, Idaho, for 35 years. He participated in countless golf tournaments and ribbon cuttings while building and beautifying the Treasure Valley. He was a trusted colleague and made friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Bob’s proudest title was family man. In 1969, he married the love of his life, Patricia (Patt) Woodward, with whom he shared 46 wonderful years until her passing in 2015. Together, they raised their beloved son, Robbie. Born September 2nd, Bob always said Robbie was “the best birthday gift he ever got.” From coaching him in Little League to cheering as his #1 fan from the stands through Majors, camping at Grimes Creek, trips to Yellowstone, watching races at the Meridian Speedway, and much more, they made decades of memories. In the last few years, their bond deepened with regular, yet changing visits, quiet companionship, unwavering support, and love, holding hands until his final breath. Even through the fog of dementia, Bob never forgot Robbie or missed a chance to tell him he loved him.

Bob adored his grandchildren, Hailey and Jacob. He and Patt enjoyed watching them play soccer and baseball, and loved spending time with them from school events to bowling and Boondocks adventures. His pride in them was endless, and he enjoyed spoiling them, such as helping Hailey get her first car and gifting Jake his treasured ‘95 Ford. Bob was a kind and loving man. As Patt’s disease progressed, some of the softest memories we have are him feeding her, brushing her hair, and playing her favorite music.

Bob was blessed with a large family - many brothers & sisters, nieces & nephews, aunts & uncles, and a very close group of friends. He had fond memories and fun stories he cherished with each of them. However, he shared a profound closeness with his sister Kathy, or his “Seester” as he called her. She was his lifelong confidante. Their bond carried into adulthood with support during life’s hardest seasons. In the last decade, they grew even closer, spending time together weekly, with her providing great care. Kathy never asked for anything in return. Although Bob was often stoic and may not have openly expressed his love and gratitude, his deep affection for Kathy and appreciation for all she did for him were profound.

Bob is preceded in death by his wife, Patt Woodward; his dad, Ray Woodward; his mom and stepdad, Marjorie and Edwin Pierce; and his brother, Michael Woodward.

Bob is survived by his son, Rob Woodward (Danielle); his Grandchildren, Hailey Woodward and Jacob Woodward; his Siblings - Kathryn Kinney, Ed Pierce (Alana), Steve Pierce (Jaye B), Randy Pierce (Mary), Jimmy Woodward (Bobby), Anna Woodward Coy, and Johnny Woodward (Vicky); and many other loving extended family and friends.

Bob is known and will be remembered for his endearing and wry humor, his love of golf (he took full advantage of that lifetime membership), his devotion to duty, and the quiet but fierce love he had for his family. He was a steady provider who never hesitated to show up. You are dearly missed, Bob, and your memory will forever live in our hearts.

A committal service with military honors will be held at 1:00 pm, on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, 10100 N. Horseshoe Bend Rd. in Boise. A reception will follow the committal at Bowman Funeral Parlor, 10254 W. Carlton Bay Dr. in Garden City.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.