Robert Bye

Robert Henry Bye It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Henry Bye, affectionately called “Sunny” by his mother, who left us peacefully at his home in Corrales, NM, on September 15, 2024, at the age of 91. Born on May 15th, 1933, in Dixonville, Alberta, Canada, Robert dedicated his life to service, family, and community. Robert proudly served in the United States Army for 30 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. His military career included active duty in Korea at the end of the conflict and various roles within the Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve, including service at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. He was inspired by his time mapping in Korea to pursue those skills later and often recounted stories from guard duty that illustrated his dedication and sense of duty. After earning a degree in Civil Engineering from Oregon State University, Robert's career with the USDA Forest Service spanned 38 years. He worked in multiple states, contributing significantly to projects and earning accolades for his leadership, particularly in mapping, engineering, and fire management. His commitment to serving forest firefighting crews continued into retirement, as he drove transport buses, navigating steep forest roads to ensure that crews arrived ready to fight fires. Robert’s love for his community extended to his church, Cross of Hope, where he was a member since 1986. His contributions were numerous, including instrumental roles in establishing both the preschool and elementary school. He served for many years on the leadership boards for both the Preschool and the Elementary School, helping to establish the schools and guide them through the years. He dedicated countless hours to maintaining church facilities, serving as a property manager, and ensuring that the grounds were welcoming. His meticulous nature meant that “good enough” was never sufficient; he insisted on excellence in every project. Family was the cornerstone of Robert’s life. He met Carolyn in Eugene, Oregon, in 1978, and they married in March of 1981. Together, they created a loving home in Alexandria, VA, then Ogden, Utah, and later Albuquerque, New Mexico, where Robert embraced his roles as a husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He adored camping and fishing with his children and grandchildren, sharing stories by the campfire, overseeing the beach sandcastle building, and teaching them the joys of the outdoors. His creative spirit was evident in every sandcastle built, every campfire lit, and every home improvement project he undertook, always striving for perfection. Robert took immense pride in his children—his sons who served in the Air Force and Navy, and his daughters, who excelled in their pursuits. He supported each of his children and grandchildren in their passions, attending games, concerts, and performances whenever possible. He was their biggest cheerleader, offering encouragement and advice, always ready to lend a helping hand. Robert leaves behind his beloved wife, Carolyn; children George Bye (Jessica), David Bye (Cindy), Carolyn Ruth Pedersen, Nichole Birch (Bill), Wendy Kidwell, and Megan Bye-Jahn (Richard); 17 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his mother Ruth Bye, his father Alfred Bye, his brother Raymond Bye, and his sister Evelyn “Betty” Walen Friesen. His legacy of love, service, and commitment will forever remain in our hearts. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 29, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Cross Of Hope Church, 6104 Taylor Ranch Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cross of Hope Schools Scholarship Fund