Remembering Owen Robinson: Philanthropist and Community Leader in Great Falls

Institutions in Great Falls honor Owen Robinson's legacy, remembering his philanthropy and dedication to the community.

June 29, 2026

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6/29/2026

Robinson’s Impact on Great Falls

Great Falls honors Owen Robinson for his significant contributions beyond monetary donations. The 81-year-old passed away on June 20 due to brain cancer.

His sudden death surprised friends like Ken Robison, who last saw him absent at the Grizzly Scholarship Association’s reception in May. A steadfast Montana Grizzlies supporter, Robinson’s absence was unexpected.

Robison, who met Robinson in 2001, admired him as a dedicated public servant and philanthropist, particularly in historic preservation. “We’re going to miss him because of his great generosity,” Robison remarked, highlighting Robinson’s kindness.

Robinson’s legacy includes a remodeled research center at the Cascade County Historical Society’s The History Museum, named after him and his wife following their major donation. “He was not just somebody who signed a check,” said Connie Constan, The History Museum’s executive director, noting his active involvement in the museum’s activities.

Even during cancer treatments, Robinson remained involved, suggesting initiatives like the art museum project in Missoula. His efforts to preserve the Great Falls Tribune archives are noteworthy. Learning about the sale of the Tribune’s building, Robinson persistently contacted the paper’s parent company and funded the relocation of a 1,200-pound mural for preservation.

Born in Great Falls in 1944, Robinson led the Grogan Robinson Lumber Company, later Lumber Yard Supply. He married Gayle in 1978. As a generous philanthropist, Robinson supported numerous organizations like the Montana History Foundation and Benefis Hospital. He also served on many boards, including the Great Falls City Commission, expressing fulfillment in solving community challenges. His full obituary is available here.

Photo Op

Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls hosts a training facility for the 341st Missile Maintenance Group, essential in keeping intercontinental ballistic missiles operational. The security-conscious environment requires collaboration with Security Forces for access, with necessary redundancies to maintain safety.

The training facility mirrors active missile silos with climate control and earthquake-resistant features. Malmstrom’s missile wing manages 150 launch facilities across central Montana.

Submit photos for Great Falls This Week to [email protected].

5 Things to Know in Great Falls

Ken Robison wins the 17th Paris Gibson Award, honoring his contributions to historic preservation. The award will be presented during a Great Falls Municipal Band performance on July 1. Details are available here.

Giant Springs State Park’s trivia nights begin July 7, running every Tuesday through Aug. 25. Open to teams of seven or fewer, participants will compete for prizes.

A four-member paddling team attempts a speed record on the Missouri River. They navigate the 2,341-mile river aiming to beat the 1980 record time. Their journey can be followed here.

The Great Falls Police Department expands its summer safety initiative downtown, deploying a direct enforcement team and school resource officers.

Great Falls adopts new fireworks restrictions this Independence Day, banning airborne and explosive devices. The city fireworks show remains, best viewed from Gibson Park or Elks Riverside Park. Learn more about the restrictions here.