The funeral service for Robert “Bob” J. Henley was at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at St. John de Britto Catholic Church in Britton. Rev. Fr. Albert Cizewski officiated the service. Interment will be at the Groton Cemetery in Groton at a later date under the direction of the Olson Funeral Chapel of Britton.
Following the service the family gathered at Snapper’s Dry Bean in Britton for a time of fellowship and to celebrate Bob’s life.
Visitation was from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, March 15, 2024 at Olson Funeral Chapel in Britton, and concluded with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m.
Robert J. Henley was born June 16, 1939 to Percy and Margaret (Schneider) Henley in Britton, SD. Bob grew up on the family farm near Claremont, SD, which his boys still farm today. He attended Claremont School and graduated in 1957. Bob’s college education was cut short by the death of his father. He decided to return home to operate the family farm.
Bob married Judy Wanous on March 18, 1960, they purchased a farm north of Britton, where they raised their three children, Doug, Angie and Brian. They later divorced and remained good friends throughout the years.
Bob loved farming and raising cattle. He was a true cowboy in every sense of the word. You rarely saw him without his cowboy hat on. Bob knew the meaning of hard work and perseverance; it showed in his success as a farmer. It is well known Bob found time for fun and conversation, which always included a beer.
Bob lived a full life with many adventures, including the Pukwana Turkey Races and riding his beloved buffalo (Angelo) in parades. He loved to attend the yearly exotic sale in Chamberlin, SD where he would purchase peacocks, ostriches, llamas, and even a lion (epic fail). Bob’s love of the cowboy spirit was evident in his yearly Cattle Drive. He would invite locals and people from great distances to participate. Trail rides and alligator hunting in Louisiana lead to lifelong friendships and shared memories, which he cherished very much. Bob was a true friend.
He was a long time member of the Buckhorn Rodeo Association, which he felt was an integral part of the cowboy way. Kettle Lake Ranch was one of Bob’s favorite places to spend time. Bob and his lifelong friend, Roland, spent many hours and days working on this cabin. Bob never missed an opportunity to fish the lakes around Kettle Lake, Larry and Wyatt made sure of it. Bob’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a great joy to him and they treasured every moment with him.
Bob passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at Marshall County Healthcare Center in Britton, at the age of 84.
He is survived by his children, Doug (Shelly) Henley of Britton, Angie Towne of Rapid City, SD, and Brian (Lana) Henley of Britton; his grandchildren: Brandon Henley, Matthew Henley, Aaron (Sabrina) Henley, Madison (Carter) Henley, Wyatt (Michail) Towne, Gage Towne, and Skylar (Myles) Towne; and his great grandchildren: Branson Henley, Jaxon Henley, Sawyer Henley and Westin Henley.
Preceding him in death were his parents; sister, Patricia “Pat” Farrar; brother, Gerald Henley; and a grandson, Hunter Towne.
The family would like to give a special thank you to the wonderful lifelong friends and loving care takers who have helped Bob over the years – Sherry Kilker, Theresa Cavalier, Becky Wade and Susan Smith. All your help, love and friendship was very appreciated.
Condolences may be directed to the family in care of Doug Henley – 10585 423rd Ave – Britton, SD 57430.
An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.olsonfuneralchapel.
