Robert (Bob) Elmer Born, age 86, passed away from a month long illness with leukemia at his home, surrounded by his children.
Bob was born January 15, 1936 in Stewartville, MN, son of Marion and Elmer Born. Bob spent most of his childhood in High Forest, MN, where he enjoyed childhood friendships for 80 years.
Graduating from Stewartville H.S. in 1953, he later met and married his love and best friend, Gladys Perko on August 20, 1955 in Ely, MN.
In September of 1955, Bob joined the Army for two years, stationed in Pasadena, CA. Extremely proud of being a Veteran, in the last several years (while wearing his special Vet cap) he never hesitated to spark prideful conversations with others about his years in the Army while handing out American flag pins.
After returning to Rochester, MN in 1958, Bob joined IBM and worked for 34 years in Quality Engineering. Bob and his wife raised their family in Rochester, until moving to Wanamingo, MN two years ago.
Bob was a loving family man, through and through. He was proud to be a Webelos leader for his young sons during their time at Longfellow Elementary, camping across the U.S. with his family in the earlier years, and later traveling internationally for years with his wife and close friends. Their trips included going to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, Slovenia, Europe, and annual trips to New York. He and his family also enjoyed 35 years at their cabin in Hayward, WI.
Bob lived life enthusiastically and always found joy and laughter. He had many lifelong friendships which he also cherished. Bob played in the Willow Creek Golf League for 22 years. For many years, Bob reunited with his large “gang” of dear friends to go fishing in Canada, which he has many fond memories. Not one to pass by a game of cards with family and friends, his favorite games were cribbage and Hand & Foot, along with his pleasure of going to the Casino. A delicious steak, garlic toast, onion rings, sweets, candy, and a good homemade pie were among his top favorites, but always raved about a good home-cooked meal. Having a reputation for being friendly, personable, and full of silliness and humor especially with his family, Bob was often seen smiling and laughing. Bob’s positive presence will be immensely missed by all who loved him. It was a joy for Bob to always make time for connecting with family, friends, and strangers alike. Near or far, Bob treasured his family and friends. Recently Bob was able to reach his main goal with the tremendous support of his doctors, of making it to see his first grandchild get married, (Natalie), allowing him the opportunity to fulfill his wish to be surrounded by his entire family and relatives one last time. It was a beautiful, meaningful, joyful, yet bittersweet occasion. The entire family was grateful for such a blessing. This event meant the world to Bob, and was so happy to share in the celebration, just one week and a day before passing. This tremendous effort towards the end of his life is again, a true testament to Bob’s love and devotion to his family.
Bob is survived by his three children; Desiree (Greg) Haspert, Ramsey, MN; Bob (Joan) Born, Byron, MN; Mike (Karen) Born, Neenah, WI; Grandchildren Amanda Haspert, Eric Born, Natalie (Aaron) Johnson, Ryan Born, Camille Born, Meghan Born, Erin Born, and great-grandson Jayden. Bob is further survived by his brothers Bill and Don, his sister Diane, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and their families. Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Gladys, on April 23, 2020; as well as his parents, newborn brother Gary, niece Brenda, brother-in-law Steve Bengtson, many cousins, and many dear friends.
The family would like to extend an expression of gratitude to the many kind doctors and staff at Mayo Clinic and St. Mary’s Hospitals, as well as Hospice help in his final days.
A funeral service for Bob will be Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Church of the Resurrection, 1600 11th Ave. SE, Rochester. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., Mass at 11:00 a.m. with Father Loomis officiating, followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery, 500 11th Ave., NE, Rochester. Please join us for a luncheon back at Resurrection immediately following the cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request that donations be made to Stewartville, MN American Legion Post #164, or Stewartville, MN VFW Post #8980.
Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com
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