Dr. Robert Jerry Freiberg, 84
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Robert Jerry Freiberg, 84, fondly known as "Bulltrout" Bob, who departed this world on Feb. 2, 2024, in Kalispell, Montana. He was born on March 26, 1939, in Berwyn, Illinois, to the late Jerry and Mildred Freiberg. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and remarkable achievements.
His life was a tapestry woven with passion for the outdoors and a dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. A loving husband to Deanna Corrine Freiberg, he is survived by their three sons and daughters-in-law; Joseph and Sherry, Sean and Lara, and Jamison and Annamarie. His presence will be dearly missed by his eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Bob was a man of many talents and interests. From a young age, he showcased his athleticism as a competitive gymnast, clinching victory in a national competition with over 1500 competitors during his high school years. His academic journey led him to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, where he graduated with honors in June of 1961, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics with a minor in Optics.
Undeterred by challenges, Bob continued his academic pursuits and obtained a Ph.D. in Laser Physics with a minor in Electro-optics from the University of Illinois in September 1966. His groundbreaking thesis marked a key pioneering study in the field of lasers, earning recognition from peers and subsequent research publications for many years. Bob's intellectual prowess was reflected in his 60 technical publications and 31 patents, contributing significantly to the fields of laser, electro-optics, and optics.
In January 1967, Bob began a remarkable chapter of his professional life at Hughes Research Laboratories in Malibu, California, where he met the love of his life, Deanna. Deanna's introduction to the missionaries led Bob to embrace the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and the couple was sealed for time and all eternity in the Cardston, Alberta Temple.
His career led them to live in various places across the country, including South Windsor, Connecticut, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and several places in California including Palos Verdes, Mission Viejo, Thousand Oaks, and San Jose. In 2002, he embarked on a well-deserved retirement, settling in Kalispell, Montana, where he enjoyed loving associations with his extended family.
"Bulltrout" Bob's spirit will forever ripple through the rivers he cast his line into and the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. As we bid farewell to a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, let us celebrate the legacy of a man whose intellect, kindness, and zest for life enriched the world around him.
There will be a visitation held for Bob from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 6, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. With services to follow 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Kalispell. Burial will follow service at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery.
May he rest in eternal peace, forever casting his line in the great waters of the hereafter.