Robert Gilje, age 86, of Rolette, ND passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at Rolette Community Care Center, Rolette, ND.

Robert Einar "Bob" Gilje was born on March 26, 1935 in Rolette, ND to Einar and Minnie (Skjepstad) Gilje.  He was raised in Rolette and completed his education there as well, furthering his education at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN.  Robert was united in marriage to Marlene Sveum on June 12, 1960 in Rugby, ND.  Together they raised three children, Steven, Andrew, and Christine.  Bob farmed near Rolette for many years.

Bob was a kind, humble and quiet man who spent 55 years with Marlene raising a family, managing a farm, and influencing the world around them for the better. Bob gave up his college musical education in 1956 to return to the farm following Einar's death.  But that didn't stop him from taking every opportunity to participate in many choirs and singing solos at any event he could attend. He drove a school bus route for many years and constantly reminded the kids to "Be kind to each other and get good grades." as they stepped off his bus in the morning.

Bob was very active in Soil Conservation Districts and was a board member at the county and state level for many years.  He and Marlene attended many state and national conventions and had lasting friendships with people throughout the state.  Bob loved spending time with family and attending grandkid's sporting events, music programs, graduations, and birthdays.  A highlight of every year was the family fishing trip to Jan Lake, Saskatchewan to catch walleyes. Bob was very involved in the farm operations and was still driving tractors, hauling hay, and doing chores almost daily until his 85 ^th birthday.  He was always willing to help in any way he could.

Robert is survived by his children, Steven (Joellen) of Rolette, Andrew (Megan) of Rolette, and Christine of Rugby; and four grandchildren, James, Sonja, Lauren, and Lynn.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Einar and Minnie Gilje, wife, Marlene Gilje, and brother, James Gilje.

Casket Bearers are Errol Gilje, Brian Gilje, Todd Gilje, Tim Tuchscherer, Rodney Ekren, and Jay Sveum.  LaVonne Ivey, organist and Dianne Montonye, pianist.

A visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Thursday, March 17, 2022 at Valle Lutheran Church, Rolette, ND with a Prayer Service at 7:00 PM.  Funeral Services will be Friday, March 18, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Valle Lutheran Church, Rolette, ND.  Pastor Nicholas Rohde officiating.  Burial will be in Westland Cemetery, Rolette, ND in the spring.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.