Dr. Robert Deckert , 81, Minot, died Wednesday, July 03, 2013 in a Minot nursing home.

Dr. Robert James Deckert "Doc" was born March 2, 1932 in Bismarck, ND, the son of Joseph and Martha (Haux) Deckert. He was raised and educated in Bismarck and graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1950. Bob attended Bismarck Junior College and Minot State Teacher's College prior to his enlisting with the U.S. Army in August of 1953. He honorably served his country until May of 1956, when he returned to North Dakota and completed his education at Minot State College. Bob was accepted into the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine, graduating in 1960 with a doctorate degree in Podiatry.

Bob was united in marriage to Cathren "Kathy" Fischer on April 18, 1964 in Sheffield, ND. They moved to Minot, where he purchased the Dr. Kiehlander Podiatry Practice. He practiced in that capacity and had more than 52 years of service to the Minot community. He retired due to illness this past May of 2013.

Doc was a long time member of Little Flower Catholic Church, Minot, where he served on the church council. He was a past chairman of the Bishop Ryan School Carnival and a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 50 years. He served as president of the Companions for Children Organization for several years. Bob was on the Minot Recreation Commission, and was president and board member for the North Dakota Podiatry Board. He was a member of the Minot Elks, Eagles, and American Legion Clubs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, playing tennis, and was an avid softball player. Doc was a long time coach of various softball teams including his wife's and daughter's. Bob was instrumental in bringing slow pitch softball to Minot. He could be seen at area athletic events, and especially loved attending his grandchildren's activities.

Bob's loving family includes, his wife of 49 years, Kathy Deckert, Minot; daughter, Camille (Brad) Oothoudt, Minot; grandchildren, Ashley (Nick) Mock, Joshua Oothoudt, and Hunter Oothoudt, all Minot; sister, Joanne Deckert, Minot; sister-in-law, Lil Deckert, Bismarck; along with numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and cousins.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Lester Deckert.

Mass of Christian Burial: Monday, July 8th, 10:30 a.m. at Little Flower Catholic Church, Minot.
Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens, Minot
Visitation: Sunday from Noon-4:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot with recitation of the Rosary on Sunday at 5:00 p.m. in the Funeral Home.
In Lieu of flowers or plants, the family prefers memorials to Little Flower Church Capital Fund Drive or God's Child Project located at 721 Memorial Hwy - Bismarck, ND 58504.