Robert Edward March

Longtime Scott Valley resident Robert Edward March passed away on December 24, 2024. He was 85 years old. Robert passed away peacefully with his wife and family by his side at the Madrone Hospice House in Yreka. We lost so much: a husband, father, cow papa, great grandfather, brother, uncle and a wonderful friend to all. Robert was born on June 25, 1939 in Oakland, California to Edward and Susannah March. He grew up in Walnut Creek, California, and attended schools in the area, graduating from Pleasant Hill High School in 1957. While attending high school, he met Rita, and they started going "steady" in 1955. Robert was an all-round athlete, playing football, basketball and running track in high school. He joined the US Navy right after graduation, and served two years of active duty at the Pearl Harbor Submarine Base as a submariner, earning his "fins" on the two submarines he was assigned to. During his tour, Robert played baseball for the Navy. Both his commanders and coaches described him as a leader, being conscientious, respected, hardworking, and a fit athlete, along with being relied on by his shipmates and teammates. He completed his tour of duty in 1959. Robert was not a native of Scott Valley, but as a young teenager, he visited the area and knew he would return one day to call it home. Shortly after returning to Walnut Creek from the Navy, he proposed to Rita. He put a ring on her finger, and headed straight back to Scott Valley. Robert and Bob Dean, his life long best friend (still to this day)rented a little cabin up old Etna, both working odd jobs, hunting, fishing, and hiking the beautiful mountains that the valley offered. The trips didn't always go as planned, as they would laugh about years later. This did make lifetime memories with good laughs. Robert returned to Walnut Creek long enough to marry Rita, his sweetheart and the love of his life on May 21, 1960. The next day they loaded up and headed back to Scott Valley, where for almost 65 years they had a beautiful life together as husband and wife. Throughout his life, Robert worked in the woods, drove logging trucks and retired from International Paper. During that time, he dabbled in cattle, pigs and horses. It was a life he truly enjoyed. In 1972, Robert and Rita, along with their three children, moved from Etna to the ranch on Island Road, establishing the 5M Bar Ranch. After his retirement from International Paper, he went into being a rancher and farmer full time. He raised pigs, cattle, grew crops and learned the industry with much help from Tony and Skip Hanna. Robert was named the 2010 Siskiyou County Cattleman of the Year, being the 56th stockman since 1955. Robert was involved with Harris Ranch Beef since 1998. He became very successful with his cattle production and their program. It was a very proud moment in his career. Rita and Robert worked very hard on their dream, and it came true. A beautiful home and amazing memories. Robert loved his home, the smell of hay, animals, the snow capped mountains, and being on his tractor or horse. He was content being on the ranch and raising his family, along with teaching them life long lessons. His children and grandchildren agree that it was the best way to grow up. He enjoyed working with the Scott Valley Pleasure Park, helping with the calf rides, being a 4-H swine leader, coaching little league and intramural basketball. He also played town team basketball and fast pitch baseball. It has been said that not many could hit off his pitches. His life truly was his wife and family. He enjoyed his friends and a good conversation. He was an honest and humble man, and would never boast about his successes. He was a character who loved to laugh and pull a good prank. His smile and open wide laugh will never be forgotten. He was a role model to many a young mind. He enjoyed watching the young cowboys, cowgirls and athletes grow. Robert was proud of the life he and Rita created. Proud of his children, and lit up when his grandchildren and great grandchildren were around. His family and friends were so important to him. He leaves a legacy of being a loved, respected and honored man to all. We were all blessed to be part of his life. Robert is survived by the love of his life, Rita; his children Debbie March (Alan), Michael March and Susan Henninger (Larry); his grandchildren Brandon McEwen (Shimla), Allison March, Levi White, Brit March (Spencer), Todd Bartlett (Hailee) and Shelby Bartlett; great grandchildren Elliott Bartlett, Scout Bartlett, Season Bartlett, Tristan Bartlett, Carson McEwen and Caleb McEwen; his brother Bill March (Marcie); numerous nieces and nephews, and special people Edward Bartlett and Lori March. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Susannah March, and his sister, Susanna Farnsworth. Per his wishes, he requested a small family gathering. We will lay him to rest in the near future, next to his parents and his sister. He will receive full military honors at the Etna Cemetery. The family would like to express their sincere thanks for all the love and support during this difficult time. A special thanks to Dr. David Wilson and the staff for their loving care, and to the Madrone Hospice House. May his influence, honesty and sense of humor and lessons live on in all of us. Ride high, cowboy, we love and miss you!!

Robert Edward March

June 25, 1939 - December 24, 2024