Robert "Bob" Hetler of Valley City, ND, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, February 9, 2026, with his beloved wife, Ilene, by his side. He was under the compassionate care of HIA Hospice.  A memorial service for Bob will be held Friday, February 13 at 2:00 PM at Faith Lutheran Church, Valley City.  Visitation will be the hour prior to the service and a chance to share memories will be included during the fellowship following the memorial service.  He will be laid to rest in Faith Lutheran Cemetery later this year.  The service will be live streamed, then archived, on a link provided along with his obituary on his tribute page at www.lerudmathias.com.  An online guestbook is available there as well.  Traditions Funeral Services, Valley City is assisting Bob's family with arrangements.

Bob was born October 13, 1943, to Bruce and Arlene Hetler. He grew up on a farm near Hesper, ND and graduated from Maddock High School in 1961. He went on to further his education at Mayville State University, graduating in 1965 with a BS in Education.

July 31, 1966, Bob was united in marriage to Ilene Ardis Emily Tweten. Together, they raised two children, a son, Todd, and a daughter, Janelle. The family made their home in Northwood, ND where Bob taught English, coached sports, and directed plays for 9 years.  Later, the family moved to Valley City, where Bob continued his career as an assistant to executive secretary of the NDHSAA for 30 years.

After retiring from teaching, Bob remained active and hardworking, keeping himself busy by taking on endless painting jobs—always willing to lend a hand and never one to sit still for long. He also played a huge roll in his local church as a Sunday School Teacher, singer and was a lector.

In his later years, he especially cherished traveling to attend his grandchildren's sporting events, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer them on from the stands and support them in the things they loved.

Bob will be remembered for his dedication to education, his strong work ethic, and his deep love for his family. He was a steady presence, a teacher at heart, and a man who found purpose in staying busy and being useful to others.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Arlene Hetler, and brother Gene.

He is survived by his wife, Ilene; son, Todd (Sheri); daughter, Janelle; and grandchildren, Abby (Drew), Kellie (Jake), Bella, Caleb, Emma, and Kaidyn; and a great grandson, Miller.