Surrounded by the warmth, love and prayers of his family, George Elbert Robson, age 56, passed away at his home Sunday, April 17, 2005, after a valiant nine year struggle with COPD.

George was born in Roundup, Dec. 15, 1948, to Phyllis and George Elbert Robson. He attended schools in Shepherd and Billings.

On June 10, 1967, George married the true love of his life, Irene Pearl. Their union was blessed with two sons, Michael and Richard.

George saw active combat service with the Army in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969 (one year and nine months) receiving several distinguished medals and awards for service to his country.

Upon discharge, George pursued technical training and apprenticeships as an automotive mechanic. He became a master mechanic working in several Billings Service Centers and his own business, Shade Tree Auto. He later started his own landscaping business where he worked until his illness forced his retirement.

George was truly a fun-loving man who believed in living life to the fullest. George was an avid NASCAR fan. He enjoyed the serenity of his aquarium. He loved and adored his children and grandchildren.

During his illness, George developed an interest in balsa crafts designing, building and painting miniature birdhouses and patriotic jewelry. George could custom design and build anything.

George is survived by his loving wife, Irene; sons Michael (Connie) and Richard (Hollie); and six grandchildren (Jason, Kadin, Cierra, Miles, Stacey and Jessica), all of Billings; his mother, Phyllis Call and mother-in-law Anna Natchatelo; five sisters, Gene Marie Robson, Alice (Mike) Buckalew, Vena (Tim) Wilkins, Mary (Wes) Burley of Billings and Victoria Arneson of Miles City; a brother, Frank Call, Jr. of Miles City; and a foster brother, Lyle Allen of Laurel; and a large, loving extended family.

George was preceded in death by his father, George; stepfathers Edward Streets and Frank Call, Sr.; his brother, Lee Streets; and his special aunt and uncle Lydia and Harold Allen.

George and his family are especially appreciative of the many supportive hours and the caregiving staff and services of Big Sky Hospice. In memory of George and in honor of those special caregivers, memorials should be directed to Big Sky Hospice to help them continue their work with other families. Address: Big Sky Hospice, PO Box 35033, Billings, MT 59107.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, April 22, at Cremation or Funeral Gallery, 29 Eighth St. West. Interment will follow in Mountview Cemetery.

Cremation or Funeral Gallery is in charge of arrangements.