HOUSTON, Texas — Although Robert “Pontius” Pilot, 84, formerly of 81 Rosedale St., Lewiston, possessed an unwavering will to live and a seemingly invincible constitution, having survived numerous strokes, heart attacks, triple bypass surgeries, and even a brain aneurysm at the age of 72, he finally passed away April 5, at the Terrace Assisted Living facility, after a brief bout with pneumonia.

He was born in Lewiston, July 30, 1927, the son of William Henri Pilote and Elaine Chamberlain Pilote. After his father was wounded in a hunting accident, Robert quit high school his sophomore year to help support the family. He later joined the Navy at the age of 17 in 1944, and was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, serving on the USS Grand Canyon.

He had many professions throughout his life but was primarily self-employed as a salesman, carpenter and roofer. An avid golfer, he was a member of Martindale Country Club, and also enjoyed fishing, ice fishing, horse racing, and making people laugh.

He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Marion Horvath Pilot of Houston; three sons, David Pilot and his wife, Lise Schneider, of Boca Raton, Fla., Mark Pilot and his wife, Tina Gervais, of Minot and Steve Pilot of Los Angeles, Calif.; two stepsons, Sean Whitlatch and his wife, Dawn Schnepp, of Houston, and Patrick Whitlatch, of Houston; seven grandchildren, Austin Gervais, Abigail Pilot, Abrina Pilot, Riley Pilot, Summer Pilot, Robert Burke and Kyle Whitlatch; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife of 33 years, Noella Carpentier Pilot; two children, Freddy Pilot and Janette Pilot Burke; and two brothers, Guy and Henry Pilot.

He was a unique individual who left a lasting impression on whoever he met. The Pilot Family wishes to thank all of those who offered their love and support in this time of sadness.


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