Bob Appley

Robert John Appley, 82, passed peacefully surrounded by family at home on Sunday August 9, 2020. Robert, better known as ‘Bob’, was born on May 29, 1938 in Shelby Montana to Charlie and Lucille Dunning Appley.

In his earlier years, Bob attended school in Oilmont and would go on to graduate from Shelby High School in 1957. He was drafted into the service shortly after graduating and served two years as a medic overseas. Bob met the love of his life, Hattie Appley through his only sister Beth and was married October 30, 1965. They started their family in Devon, Montana where Bob was farming and working for the Co-op delivering fuel. In 1969, they moved to Shelby to raise their two boys, Chuck and Shawn. Bob then established Appley Repair and learned to make a living out of his love of working on cars. He worked there alongside his nephew Tom Welker, where they worked together for over 30 years. He made history there, building the famous ‘Fam car’ along with friends; which he could eventually be found driving all over town due to contracting transverse myelitis. He was confined to a wheelchair for the last 21 years of his life, but never let that keep him from living life to the fullest. He could be seen at almost every home Coyote game and a large number of away games on the sidelines supporting his favorite team. He loved the community of Shelby and was a die-hard Coyote fan.

Bob was never afraid to tell you what he thought and was always thinking outside the box. He had a very kind heart and would give anyone the shirt off his back without question. He had a great love and pride in his children and grandchildren and was continuously bragging about their accomplishments. He had an extremely bright mind and was always finding unique solutions to any obstacles in his path.

Bob is survived by his wife of almost 55 years, Hattie Lunda Appley. He is also survived by his sons Charles Appley (Annamarie) of Cumberland IN, and Shawn Appley (LeAnn) of Shelby MT. Along with grandchildren Kaylee, Jackson, Kyle and Alex Appley and sister Beth Welker (Bud). He is preceded in death by both his parents.

Bob was very fortunate to have many close friends. He will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, the Tri-County Shriners, or a charity of your choice.

Graveside services will be Thursday, August 13, at 11:00 AM at Mountain View Cemetery. Social distancing protocol will be enforced. A ZOOM meeting is available. Please call Asper Funeral Homes for details.

A reception will follow the service at Appley Repair, 952 Birch Avenue, Shelby.