Robert Francis 'Bud' Daley, 72

Robert Francis “Bud” Daley, 72, of Bigfork, died suddenly at home on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019.

Born at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Elizabeth, N.J., he was the son of Shirley (Graham) Daley and Frank J. Daley of Hillsborough, N.J.

A “mountain man” at heart, Bud had a unique sense of humor, a generous spirit, and many creative talents, including outstanding skills in mechanics, woodworking, and cooking. He and his wife, Eileen, owned and ran AT&T Auto & Boat Repair in Polson for 17 years before retiring in 2007. He specialized in repairing engines, transmissions and big trucks.

Prior to moving to Bigfork in 1990, Bud lived in New Jersey. A graduate of Somerville High School and Lincoln Tech’s auto mechanics program, he married his high-school sweetheart, Sharon Howard, and they had three children. For many years, he was an integral part of his family’s auto repairs business in Hillsborough, which began with an Esso gas station and evolved into the independent Repairs Unlimited. Bud was also an active member of his local Rotary club.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Eileen J. Daley of Bigfork; his siblings David of Hillsborough, N.J., and Lois DeMarco of Freehold, NJ; his children Bridget of Madison, N.J., Shaun of Somerset, N.J. and Scot of Lakeside; his grandchildren Wyett and Brendon of Ronan; and his dogs Sadie and Junior.

As Bud wished, his ashes will be scattered on the mountain near his home that he so loved.

In memory of Bud, charitable donations can be made in his name to HealthWell Foundation (20440 Century Blvd., Suite 250, Germantown, MD 20874 or www.healthwellfoundation.org).