James Robert “Bob” Littlewood

James Robert “Bob” Littlewood, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on October 9, 2025, in Laramie, Wyoming, at the age of 92. Born August 30, 1933, in Fowler, Colorado, Bob was the son of James Aurther and Georgia Jeanette Littlewood, and the younger brother to Velma and George.

Early Life and Education

Bob grew up in the small farming community of Fowler, Colorado, where he learned the values of hard work. Stories of Bob’s mischievous youth—often referred to as “Naughty Bobbie” by his teachers—were a favorite among family and friends. Even before graduating from Fowler High School, he worked at the local bowling alley, where he learned to play cards from the men who gathered there. His love for cards became a lifelong passion, one he shared with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at every family gathering.

Traditions and Family Legacy

Bob’s card-playing skills were legendary, not just for the games but for the tradition of “walking around money.” He folded his winnings and tucked them behind family photos in his wallet, which became a symbol of spontaneous generosity—funding special activities, travels, college days, and just-for-fun moments for his loved ones. This tradition extended to all generations, with grandchildren delighted by the random appearance of “walking around money.”

Career and Service

After high school, Bob worked a variety of jobs, including at a steel mill, the railroad, and Boeing in California. His sense of duty led him to serve in the United States Army as a Track Mechanic Specialist, deployed toward the end of the Korean War. Using the GI Bill, he attended Colorado State University’s engineering program, always striving to learn and grow.

Marriage and Family

In 1956, Bob married Mary Jane (Muir), and together they welcomed two children, Janet Specht and James Hugh (“Jimmy”). The family moved to Denver, Colorado, where Bob worked for Rainbow Bread Company and later connected with an opportunity to open a restaurant in Wyoming. In 1964, the Littlewoods moved to Laramie, Wyoming, where Bob ran Scotti’s Drive In. Mary Jane and Jimmy preceded Bob in death, leaving a legacy of love and family that endures.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Community Involvement

Early on he began his entrepreneurial skills trapping and selling furs, managing the local service station and working at the local bowling alley. Bob’s enterprising nature led him to own and operate several businesses in addition to Scotti’s, including the West Laramie Fly Store, which he purchased in 1969, and the Laramie Car Wash Corp, with multiple locations. His time at the Fly Store fostered relationships with people from across the country, including a special friendship with Curt Gowdy, “the American Sportsman.” Even in semi-retirement, Bob was never idle, always seeking new opportunities and learning from those around him. In 2004, he partnered with his grandson, Brandon Specht, to continue the legacy of the “Fly Store”, ensuring its place in the community for generations to come.

Faith, Family, and Love

Bob’s devotion to the Lord, his family, and his country was evident in all he did. He actively served on community boards and committees, taking seriously his responsibility to honor and serve others, and often reaching out in generosity to people in need. He cherished his role as father to Janet (Keith), Jimmy and Tia (Todd), grandfather to Brooke (Chad), Brandon (Marlyn), Brittan (Lindsey), Cole, Raquel, and great-grandfather to James, Alex, Nolan, Dylan, Addison, Evangeline, and Gabriel. Bob’s life was shaped by the relationships he built, none more precious than his wife, Linda (Paules).

After the loss of Mary Jane in 1991, Bob found joy and love again with Linda (Paules), whom he married in 1992. Linda’s unwavering care and their special bond became a great example of love and partnership. Daughter Tia Paules Tenbrink (Todd) was embraced into his family, and over 33 years of marriage, Linda remained the heart of Bob’s world. He greatly cherished their time together, dancing, traveling, dining and working. The song “What Kind of Love” perfectly captured the essence of their relationship.

A Life Well Lived

Bob Littlewood’s legacy is one of generosity, hard work, laughter, and deep love for his family and community. He touched the lives of all who knew him, leaving behind cherished traditions, countless memories, and a shining example of a life well lived. Bob will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and the community he served with such passion.

Service Information

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held in Laramie, Wyoming, Sunday, October 19, at 2:00 PM, at First Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that acts of kindness, generosity, and “walking around money” be shared with someone in need.

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Marce Vasquez