Robert "Bob" Yecoshenko, 69, Butte, ND, passed away Monday, March 11, 2019 at the Trinity Hospital in Minot following a courageous battle with cancer.

Robert Allan Yecoshenko, son of Melvin and Ruth (Nachatelo) Yecoshenko, was born September 30, 1949 at Minot, ND. He grew up on the family farm six miles south of Butte and attended Butte Public School all twelve years, graduating in 1967. He continued his education at Springfield, MO and then Dickinson, ND for four years, graduating with a music degree in chorus and band. Bob began his teaching career at Grand Marais, MN where he taught music and band. He married Wendy Thoreson in Grand Marais and the couple made their home in Dickinson, ND where their two sons, Jason and Peter were born.

In addition to working as a residential home interior finishing contractor, Bob was employed with the Dickinson Fire Department for several years. He later earned a police certificate through Bismarck State College and worked for the Dickinson Police Department for seven years. Through the years he also helped his father with field work on the family farm south of Butte whenever time permitted.

In March of 1990, Bob was married to Mary Ross and they made their home in Butte, ND. Bob then taught music and band in Karlsruhe, Butte and Garrison, ND for a time. Mary passed away in 2006. He continued his studies and received a driver's certificate to drive semi-truck for a commercial company out of Minot. He later drove truck for local farmers in the Butte area.

Bob was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church and was also an active member and former Fire Chief of the Butte Volunteer Fire Department. He was presently serving as President of the Butte Area Fire Fighters Association.

Whether he was playing his guitar or organ, teaching chorus and band, or just listening, Bob's passion was music. He was also known for his willingness to give of his time to help anyone in need.

He is survived by his sons, Jason (Lori) Yecoshenko and Peter Yecoshenko of Duluth, MN; stepsons, John and Patrick Ross of Mandan; 3 grandchildren, Fayth, Kristianna and Brock; his mother Ruth Yecoshenko of Butte; his sister Betty (James) Eidson of Dover, DE; his niece, Paula and his grand-nephew, Henri.

Bob was preceded in death by his wives Wendy and Mary; his special friend, Marilyn Nurnberger; his father, Melvin; and many uncles and aunts.

Funeral: Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Butte.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the church on Saturday.

Burial: Butte Cemetery in Butte later in the spring.

Arrangements with Nelson Funeral Home of Drake.

Online condolences may be shared at nelsonfuneralhomesnd.com