Robert Mcnees

Robert John McNees, 76, of Great Falls, passed away Monday, January 4, 2016.A graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 8, 2016 at Highland Cemetery. Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements.Robert was born on March 14, 1939 in Charlo, Montana to John and Vivian McNees. He attended Fergus County High School and in 1956 he enlisted in the US Army Reserves and served until 1960. In 1957, he graduated from Fergus County High School then attended Eastern Montana College where he received his Bachelors degree in elementary education. He furthered his education at the University of Utah and finished his Masters in education at Montana State University in 1970. Robert worked as a teacher and a coach at Riverview School, Franklin School, and then the principal at Emerson Elementary. He became the vice-principal at West Jr. High and then later became the principal at West Elementary and Valley View Elementary, retiring on June 30, 1998. Robert married S. Irene Potterf in 1960 in Lewistown.He was a member of the Great Falls Education Association, Montana Education Association, National Education Association, past-president of MT International Reading Association, Montana Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, and National Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals.Robert loved his family. He enjoyed spending time with them camping, traveling and playing cards.Robert is survived by his wife, S. Irene McNees; sons Brian E. McNees and Kevin J. (Peggy) McNees both of Great Falls; sister Gail (John) Martin of Mesa, AZ; grandchildren Zachary, Amy, Trevan and Kyanne; brother and sister-in-law, Melvin and Beverly Taurman and brothers-in-law Larry Torstenbo and Jack Craig.He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Donald G. McNees; son Dirk A. McNees; and sisters-in-law Glenna Craig and Mary Torstenbo.