Robert LaMotte

Robert D. “Bob” LaMotte, a hardworking and dedicated man, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2023, at his home in Devils Lake, ND. Born on June 11, 1940, in McVille, ND, to Lector and Caroline (Halverson) LaMotte, Bob led a remarkable life filled with accomplishments, love for his family, and a vibrant involvement in his community.

From an early age, Bob embraced the value of hard work. He began his career by working for local cattlemen Jack Reeves and Mel Brodell during high school. Following this experience, he joined Consolidated Construction where he contributed to the construction of bowling alleys. Bob then found his calling as a warehouseman and truck driver for Gamble Robinson Company in Devils Lake. He quickly rose through the ranks and achieved various roles such as Warehouse Foreman and Sales Representative. In 1983, he relocated to Grand Forks and continued his tenure with Gamble Robinson as the Buyer/Sales Representative until 1986.

Never one to rest on his laurels, Bob pursued new opportunities and became the Director of Sales for Food Services of America in Grand Forks. After leaving the company, he embarked on a successful journey with General Tobacco and Candy Company as a Salesman and eventually became their purchasing agent. He then worked for 9 years at UND before retiring in 1999. However, retirement was not in Bob’s vocabulary. He continued working at the Riverside Casino and Hotel during winters in Arizona while dedicating his summers to assisting his brother Tom back in North Dakota.

Bob was united in marriage to his beloved high school sweetheart Mardell Lambert on September 11, 1958 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Devils Lake. They lived, worked, raised their family together through the years. They shared a life of love for nearly 54 years until Mardell’s death on June 9, 2012.

Bob’s tireless work ethic was not only limited to his professional endeavors but also encompassed his commitment to various organizations within his community. His involvement included serving as an active member of the Devils Lake Jaycees for ten years and being honored as Jaycees' Outstanding Young Man of America in 1970-1971. Additionally, he made significant contributions to Devils Lake Park Commission and played an integral role in the construction of Burdick Arena. Bob was a respected member of the Elks Lodge and Eagles Lodge, demonstrating his dedication to philanthropy and community service. He also served on the St. Joseph Parish Council, taught religious education, acted as a lay minister, and was a faithful Eucharistic Adorer ever since its inception.

Beyond his professional achievements and community involvement, Bob’s true pride and joy were his family. He loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with all his heart and actively participated in their lives. His love extended to his brothers, nieces, nephews, and friends; Bob was a true friend to everyone he met.

Bob’s memory will be cherished by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kindness, and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around him. His legacy will forever live on through the memories he leaves behind.

Bob is survived by his loving family. His children Kimberly (Paul) Becker of Crary ND, Jim (Marilyn) LaMotte of Devils Lake, and Michelle (Bill) Campbell of Grand Forks ND; brother Tom (Mary) LaMotte also of Devils Lake; grandchildren Jeremy (Samantha) Becker, Jordan (Kelsey) Becker and Lindsey (Samuel) Kertzman: Brady (Katelyn) LaMotte and Mariah LaMotte: Miranda Bry; great grandchildren Brynn and Briggs Becker, several nieces, nephews and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lector and Caroline, wife Mardell and brother Joseph in infancy and brother Eugene LaMotte, 

Casket Bearers will be Jim LaMotte, Tom LaMotte, Todd LaMotte, Brady LaMotte, Paul Becker, Jeremy Becker and Jordan Becker. Lector will be Paul Becker. Bringing forth the Eucharistic Gifts, Miranda Bry and Mariah LaMotte. Music provided by Miranda Bry, Lynne Webster and Patty Cote.

Bob LaMotte enriched the lives of those around him through his hard work, dedication, and unwavering love for his family. His memory will forever remain an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary and Scripture Service at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Devils Lake with burial in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery. Fellowship to follow the burial at the Parish Center.