Charles D. "Red" Robinson, 78, of Billings, Mont., passed away Saturday, March 9, 2013. Red was a wonderful husband, father and friend and will be greatly missed by all.

Red was born July 8, 1934, in Olney, to loving parents Norris and Vivian Robinson. He was the eldest of three brothers, Bob, George and Mike. Red graduated from East Richland High School in 1952 and moved to Watford City, N.D., to work for Diester, Ward and Witcher Oil Abstractors. He attended Dickinson State Teachers College from 1954-1959, where he met and married his first wife, Bev, and had four beautiful daughters. He continued learning more about the oil and gas industry by working part-time for various title abstract and drilling companies. After college, Red went into business with Leroy (Pudge) Beaudoin and opened B&R Standard Service Station. Red moved back to Olney in 1963 and started his life-long career in the oil and gas industry.

On July 31, 1969, Red married the love of his life, Judy Kissinger, and expanded his family with two more children. Red joined Patrick Petroleum Company in 1970 and quickly moved up to Vice-President until 1978 when he moved to Richlands, Va., and became President of Patrick Coal Company.

Red and Judy moved to Billings, Mont., in 1987 where Red managed the Patrick Petroleum office. Red took early retirement in 1995 but did not quit working. He was grateful for his many years with Patrick Petroleum, but it was time to explore the dream of becoming an independent operator in the industry he loved. Robinson Oil Company, LLC was eventually formed on September 4, 1997, with his brother, George.

Besides work, Red enjoyed traveling, golfing, attending Indy Car Races and watching his grandchildren play sports. Family was number one to him and he showed us that on a daily basis. Our family will never forget the love and generosity our father exhibited throughout his life.

Red is survived by his wife of 45 years, Judy Robinson; daughters, Barbara Robinson, Geri Robinson, Tracy Robinson, Chris Lee (husband Richard) and Sandy Robinson (husband Doug Cazier); brother, George Robinson and his wife, Ann; sisters-in-law, Madeline Robinson and Joan Robinson; nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Norris and Vivian Robinson; son, Rick Robinson; and brothers Bob and Mike Robinson.

Graveside services at Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.

Published in Olney Daily Mail (IL) - March 14, 2013