Robert Quinten “Bob” Remmerde — beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend — passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026 at the age of 80. He died surrounded by family at HopeWest Hospice in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Bob was born on November 9, 1945, in Richland, Washington to Sarah Venita and Gerrit Remmerde. His family moved frequently during his childhood, spending time in Richland; Springfield, Oregon; and Paradise, California, where he graduated from high school.

In 1964, Bob met Sharon Ritchey in Medford, Oregon, while she was painting a house. He proposed the first time he met her, captivated not only by her beauty, but also by her painting abilities and her water-skiing talent. She thought he was joking, but his instincts were right: Bob and Sharon went on to share 60 years of marriage and close companionship. After living in Canada and Oregon, they eventually settled down in Colorado, where they raised their five children on the Ritchey Ranch in Hotchkiss. Life on the ranch reflected many of the things Bob valued: family, hard work, the land, and the outdoors.

Bob was committed to helping others and demonstrated that belief throughout his career. As a probation officer, he had a profound impact on many young people. Years later, former clients would recognize him around town and share their appreciation for his role in helping them find a better path. Those encounters meant a great deal to him. Service extended well beyond Bob’s professional life. He volunteered for many years with Partners, a nonprofit organization providing mentorship to young people, and served on the board of the Grand Mesa Nordic Council. He also devoted his time and investigative expertise to the Innocence Project, reflecting his commitment to fairness and justice.

Bob also loved nature and the outdoors. He was an avid distance runner, enthusiastic mountain biker and cross-country skier. Nearly everyone had a “more than you bargained for” adventure story with Bob, where a short run, ride or hike kept growing in distance with encouragement of “Almost there!” His adventures were legendary — especially for the muddy or soggy shoes they often left behind.

He believed strongly in living a healthy, active life — a philosophy his children experienced firsthand, whether they wanted to or not. He made sure they ate their oatmeal and leafy greens, encouraged them to get outside, and enthusiastically supported their athletic pursuits. Bob and Sharon were nearly always at a game or school activity, cheering their kids — and eventually grandkids — on. His love of physical activity, nature, and healthy living became part of the legacy he passed on to his family.

Bob is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sharon (Ritchey) Remmerde; daughter Emilie Remmerde Goldman, her husband Lonnie, and their children Julie, Annie, and Sam; son Jason Remmerde, his wife Dana, and his children Emma Tancik and Jesse, along with Emma’s husband, Steven Tancik, and their son, Bennett; daughter Melissa Remmerde, her husband Michal Neumann, and their daughter Leah; daughter Elise Penington, her husband Mike, and their children Lauren and Mason; sister Cheryl Remmerde (Peter Conklin); brother Jon (Laura) Remmerde; and sister-in-law Anita Ritchey. He was preceded in death by son Pieter Remmerde; brothers Gerrit and David Remmerde; sister Venita Cullum; and parents Sarah Venita and Gerrit Remmerde.

HopeWest Hospice contributed meaningfully to Bob’s quality of life in his last years and cared for him compassionately in his last few days. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to HopeWest or your favorite charity in Bob's memory. A service will be held at a later date.