I wish to nominate Robert Stewart for The Hall of Fame and here is why as I collect my thoughts.
Robert "Bob" Stewart was born in Butte, Montana. At age 17, he worked in the Butte mile deep copper mines as a groundman and eventually a lineman. He at one time was part owner of Williams Line Construction, Inc. He also worked for the Montana Power Company as a utility lineman and other contractors in very many states. He was a foreman, general foreman, and superintendent of many, many line jobs. He is loved by everyone who knows him. He is a quiet man, a man with a humble spirit, a genuine individual who loves people and especially linemen and the line trade. Bob has worked tirelessly helping and training apprentices, helping build apprentice training facilities, all with no pay and on his own time. He has worked his weekends helping build "The Line Rodeo" grounds and donating to its cause. This man is 72 years old and is still working construction and still tramps. He attends and participates in our local rodeo and most of the international rodeos. My friend Bob gives unconditionally his time, his glass and personal line collectables to collectors and wanting nothing in return. Most of all, he gives his heart and instruction to all, with a tender touch for line apprentices!
Bob has been an IBEW member for around 55 years and an international delegate and involved forever in union issues trying with all his heart to make this world a better place to live and always upholding our found fathers' ideal of attaining a better standard of living for all!
I myself, all my brothers and IBEW family and all Local Union 44 members are honored and humbled by this great man. We are so fortunate to know him and he has touched so many people and lives.
Yes I am only barely touching this man's credentials. He is a father of 6 yet most of us believe he too is our father. I personally have worked with Bob for 33 years and have learned so much. I have been so blessed by him and his leadership qualities. He always leads by example. If you folks had a 10 minute interview with this man, you would feel a presence of a wonderful, great lineman, a true leader. I'm a 40 year acquaintance of Bob and I can honestly say I have never heard a bad word, ever!
For these reasons and this being the right thing to do, I nominate Robert Stewart for the Lineman Hall of Fame.