Bob Sobotta—A Memoir Completed

By Bob Fontaine

For the ICR

Despite repeated falls and declining health, my friend Bob Sobotta remained determined to complete his memoir.

But his memoir, “Reflections, Challenges and Blessings,” was unfinished when Bob, surrounded by his family, passed away peacefully in the evening hours of Tuesday, Nov. 4.

Yet, in a deeper and far more beautiful way, Bob’s story is now complete—completed not by his own hand, but by the loving hand of God.

Those of us blessed to have known Bob know that his life itself was a living memoir—a testimony written daily in the way he loved his family, lived his Catholic faith, and served with integrity, kindness and a humility which guided his life of servant leadership in both public and Catholic education.

I had the privilege of working with Bob first at the Idaho State Department of Education and later in the Diocese of Boise. In both places, Bob stood out not only for his professional excellence but for his character. He carried his faith quietly but confidently. In every conversation, every decision, every challenge, Bob’s sense of fairness and compassion guided him. He never lost sight of the people behind the policies or the students behind the test scores.

During our time at the State Department, I remember how his smile and laughter could dissolve a tension in a meeting or lighten a long afternoon. It wasn’t the kind of humor that drew attention to himself, but rather the kind that drew people together. He had a gift for connection, for making others feel seen and valued.

When our paths crossed again years later at the Diocese of Boise, I was grateful for the opportunity to serve with him once more. Bob had taken on the role of Superintendent of Catholic Schools, and his devotion to Catholic education was inspiring. He worked tirelessly to ensure that Catholic schools across Idaho met accreditation standards but remained rooted in the mission of Christ.

It was during those years that we met in our “Fourth Day” gatherings each week. Those of us who had completed a Cursillo would meet during lunch in the empty boardroom at the Diocesan office. Those moments became an oasis in the middle of a workday; a time to pray, reflect and encourage one another in our walk with Christ. Bob’s insights during those gatherings were always heartfelt. He could take a passage of Scripture and, with just a few words, make it come alive in practical, human ways. It was a time we treasured.

Behind all his accomplishments stood his beloved wife, Loretta.

Their 60 years of marriage was a true partnership of faith, love and respect. Loretta’s quiet strength, her deep roots in the Nez Perce community and her own faith journey shaped so much of who Bob was. He often spoke of her with deep affection and gratitude. His family—six children, 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren (and another on the way)—were his greatest pride and his truest legacy.

Though his written memoir remains unfinished, I believe that God has now completed the final chapter.

God has welcomed him home and filled in the remaining pages. And in that divine completion, Bob’s story finds its perfect ending—not an ending of sorrow, but one of fulfillment and peace.

When I think of Bob now, I picture him with that familiar smile, that twinkle in his eye, perhaps sharing a laugh with the saints, or gently offering advice to a few angels about leadership. His humor, kindness, empathy and sense of fairness live on in all who knew him. His faith continues to inspire. And his story—though unfinished here—will continue to be written in the lives he touched.

Rest well, my friend. Your memoir is now complete with God.