Affordable Cremation & Burial - Obituaries

Susan W. Fackler

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 20:31:11

Susan Wetzel Fackler, 70 of Duluth, MN died early morning on Sunday, June 14, 2026. She passed at home with family by her side after facing pancreatic cancer and the treatments with unwavering courage, tenacity and spunk for over a year. Susan was born in Chicago, IL on January 23,1956. The fourth of nine Wetzel children, she grew up in Evanston, IL. She married in 1977 and was the proud mother of two children, Timothy and Emily. She spent her children’s youth working as an activity director with senior citizens, modeling her dedication to helping others. After over a decade later, she returned to school as a single parent. She found her place to grow her dedication to others at Aurora University (IL), where she completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work, and was President of the Aurora University Social Work Association. After graduation, she went on to build the Community and Family Services program at Ela Township (IL) from the ground up. She earned several accreditations throughout her time there, while providing therapeutic groups for grief, mental health and stress reduction, crisis intervention, case management, and providing mentorship. She was always finding ways to build community within the township through innumerable partnerships and programs including her Charity Knit program. After 17 years of dedicated service to the community, she retired in 2021 to Duluth, Minnesota to take on her most cherished role as "Mimi" to her grandchildren, Calvin and Ruby. Along the way, she immersed herself in the practice and teaching of yoga by becoming a certified instructor: specializing in restorative yoga, yoga nidra and sound healing. She shared her gifts as an instructor at Full Circle, Svalja, St. Luke’s and the University Nursery School. She married Mark Fackler in 2012, becoming close with his family and sharing a lasting bond with her brother-in-law, Father Neil Fackler. Susan’s zeal for life was shown through her many hobbies and passions. She was an exceptional artist whose talents extended to calligraphy, ceramics, painting, knitting, weaving, writing, gardening, baking and cooking for her loved ones. She never hesitated to share her delicious jams and jellies with all as a token of her appreciation. Her family cabins on Tamarack Lake in the Upper Peninsula gave her the space and peace to enjoy kayaking, picking berries, foraging for mushrooms and most importantly- being with her family. She shared her abundant love and light with her family, friends, neighbors and yogis, taking pride and gratitude in the communities she created. Susan would never hesitate to say how special she was to those around her, and it has been confirmed countless times by the extensive communities she built and was a part of. Susan is survived by her children, Tim Kostner (Jackie Pribyl of Duluth, MN) with her treasured grandchildren Calvin and Ruby, and Emily Kostner (Alex Kemmeling of Spokane, WA). Also importantly, her beloved pets: Bitsy and Bella; and granddogs, Cappy, Birdie, Cricket and Boomer. She is also survived by her siblings: Mari Quick, WI, Paul Wetzel (Trish), nieces, Brenna Tiller and Alanna Yeargain and their families, Richmond, VA, Laine Hoffman (Skip), Evanston, IL, niece and nephew, Madelaine Wood and Everett Wood of Chicago, IL, Richard Wetzel (Karen) of Arlington Heights, IL and Stephen Wetzel (Patrice), Lake Forest, IL; and her nieces, nephews and their families near and far, and her brother-in- law, Fr. Neil Fackler of Chicago, IL. She is preceded in death by her parents: Dr. Nicholas and Helen Wetzel; siblings, Nicholas Wetzel III, Sara Wetzel, Peter Wetzel; her husband, Mark Fackler and mother-in-law Hazel S. Fackler. Susan's family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the nurses and doctors at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth and the Mayo Clinic in Rochester for their kindness, compassion and care throughout her cancer treatment. A Memorial Service will be held at the Park Point Beach House in Duluth on June 24th from 3:00 -7:00 pm, with a brief ceremony at 4:00 pm followed by a drum circle. A future Memorial Service will take place in the Chicago area later this summer.

Roger A Miller

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:16:40

Roger Allen Miller, 85, of Prairie Lake, MN, cast his final line on Monday evening, passing away peacefully at Moose Lake Hospital. Born with a craftsman’s hands and an adventurer's heart, Roger graduated from Minneapolis's Marshall High School and the Dunwoody Institute before dedicating his career to Local #15. As a skilled commercial plumber and welder, his work left a lasting mark across the Twin Cities, the University of Minnesota, multiple states, and Canada. When he wasn't working, Roger was happiest in the great outdoors. He was an avid hunter, a passionate fisherman, and was never more at peace than when he was captaining his boat across the waters of Prairie Lake. Roger’s memory lives on through his beloved wife, Kay; his children, Paul (Denise), Michael (Christine), and Renee (Brian); and his daughter-in-law, Cindi. He also leaves behind his brother, Bruce (Jolene); seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; Kay's son, Jim; and his faithful companion, Punkin the Cat. He has reunited in eternity with his parents and his son, Joseph. Funeral services will take place on Monday, June 22, at St. Louis Catholic Church (105 E. 4th Ave., Floodwood, MN 55736). Friends and family are welcome for visitation at 10:00 A.M., with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 A.M. A light lunch will follow, and Roger will be laid to rest at Fine Lakes Cemetery that afternoon. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to their wonderful neighbors and friends for their overwhelming love, help, and support during this time.

Timothy Marken

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 15:48:43

Timothy “Tim” A. Marken, 69, of Duluth, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on June 7, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Tim was born on May 15, 1957, in Duluth to Theodore and Patricia Marken. He graduated from Duluth East High School with the Class of 1975. As a young boy, he enjoyed playing baseball and hockey before beginning a lifelong career as an auto and heavy equipment mechanic.

Tim was happiest when he was working with his hands, whether building race cars, restoring vehicles, or tackling the next project on his ever-growing list. He had a passion for dirt track racing and built numerous race cars and enduro cars over the years. One of his greatest joys was watching his daughters take to the track and share in the sport he loved. He also took great pride in restoring his beloved 1967 Jeep CJ6.

While Tim enjoyed many hobbies, nothing meant more to him than the cabin. It was his favorite place in the world—a place where life slowed down, where he could watch the loons on the lake, and enjoy the peace and solitude. Whether working on a project, or simply taking in the quiet, the cabin was where he felt most at home and where many cherished memories were made.

Tim was also an avid hunter and a member of the Duluth Archery Club.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Patricia Marken. He is survived by Wanda Meinke, his daughters Dayna Marken and Kristy (Nate) Rose, grandchildren Kayla, Brandon, Tyler, Nathan, Brooklynn, Elliana and Noah, great-grandchildren Kobe and Alayah, his brother David (Virginia) Marken, sister Terri (Jim) Torkelson, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Tim’s family would like to extend their profound gratitude to Essentia Health Hospice, and a special thank you to Christa, RN who truly became his friend when he needed one the most.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Other Place Bar and Grill at 3930 East Calvary Road in Duluth.

Larry J. Turnboom

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 20:34:26

Larry Turnboom, 84, passed away at home from his heart problem on Saturday June 13, 2026. He was born on October 20, 1941 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, MN. Graduated from Meadowlands High School in 1959. He was a concrete man all his life, going as far as Colorado and the East Coast until he formed TK Construction with his partner, Frank Kozumplik. He was married on June 30, 1962 to Sharon Slygh and had five children. Then in 1989 he met Priscilla (Percy) Carpenter Nelson and after (not for Larry) an unusual courtship and proposal, were married in Reno, NV on April 1, 1993. With marriage he added two more children and spent the best 33 years they could ever imagine. On February 14, 1983, he turned his life around and AA became the focus of his life. What a life it was, with his God and fellow AA members, serving as district Chairman and representative from is home group. He often said, without AA he would have nothing, no family (which was everything to him) and no business. He loved gardening, raising pigs and chickens, and most of all sharing his garden with so many. Squash being the number one thing to share. He is preceded in death by his parents Emmett & Llillian (Kadera) Turnboom and brother Kenneth Turnboom. He is survived by: wife Percy; children Bradley (Char) Turnboom, Craig Turnboom, Darren (Melanie) Turnboom, Dawn (Butch) Gortsema, and Kristie (Scott) Balovich; stepchildren Teri (Jason) Kouba, and Micheal (Jennifer) Nelson. Grandchildren Angela, Brandon, Addy, Anya Brook, Nicole, Kayla, and Morgan. Step-grandchildren Noah, Annika, and Andrew. Ten great-grandchildren with another in December. Siblings Greta (Herb) Lindgren, Sister-in-law Bonny Turnboom, Faye (Fritz) Kerrtula, Eunice Johnson, Jerry (Butch) Turnboom, and Joyce Turnboom (Pat Neeser). There were many nieces, nephews, friends and AA Family that are too numerous that we would need more space that we have to list.

Diane Sharrow

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:49:34

Diane Marie Van Damme Sharrow, 70, of Superior, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully on May 31, 2026, as the full moon ascended over Lake Superior, surrounded by the love of her family and dear friends. She was a once-in-a-blue-moon woman.

Born June 16, 1955, to William and Rose Ann Van Damme, Diane lived a life marked by creativity, authenticity, and deep devotion to the people she held dear. Affectionately known as “Tinker,” she brought color, warmth, and unmistakable individuality into every space she entered, moving through the world with grace, humor, and an open heart.

Family was the cornerstone of Diane’s life. She shared 44 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Maurice Sharrow, with whom she built a life grounded in love, laughter, hospitality, and enduring friendship. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother to Hally and Patrick, and a treasured presence within a wide circle of family and friends who were continually uplifted by her care and generosity.

Diane found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments: gathering with loved ones around the kitchen table; hosting gatherings filled with joy and laughter; spending time along the south shore of Lake Superior; and enjoying art, adventures, music, museums, concerts, and dance floors. She was a member of the Wisconsin Retired Educators’ Association, the Superior Area Retired Educators’ Association, the University of Wisconsin-Superior Alumni Association, the Douglas County Special Olympics Committee, Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Superior High School Class of '73, and her beloved trivia team, “Over the Hill.”

A gifted and devoted educator, Diane dedicated more than three decades to the Superior School District as an art teacher, where she inspired generations of students to see and create beauty in the world around them. She also played a pivotal role in establishing the girls’ hockey program in Superior, leaving a lasting legacy of opportunity, encouragement, and community pride.

Above all, Diane had a rare gift for making others feel seen, valued, and welcome. Her kindness, humor, generosity, and authenticity left an indelible mark on all who knew her, brightening every room she entered and every life she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Rose Ann Van Damme; her brothers, Dennis Van Damme and Thomas John Van Damme; and many cherished friends and relatives.

She is survived by the love of her life, her husband, Maurice Sharrow; her children, Hally Sharrow and Patrick Sharrow; her sister, Mary Jill Monaghan; her brother, William “Skip” (Lori) Van Damme; her dear cousin, Dave (Barb) Eibon; her favorite puppy, Ila; and a wide and loving circle of extended family, cherished friends, colleagues, and community members who will carry her memory forward with enduring affection.

Diane’s life will be remembered for its creativity, generosity, and joy. She leaves behind the beauty she created, the opportunities she helped shape, and the love she gave so freely.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Great Hall at the Kitchi Gammi Club in Duluth, Minnesota.

In honor of Diane’s lifelong appreciation for fashion and self-expression, thoughtful and respectful attire is warmly encouraged. She would have wanted to be celebrated in style.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made directly to the family in her memory.

Michelle Evans

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:43:31

Michelle Evans, 59, of Superior WI passed away peacefully Sunday May 31, 2026 surrounded by family and friends at Essentia Health in Duluth, MN. Michelle was born on April 17, 1967 in Duluth MN to Margaret (Margo) Overlie and William C. Evans. She was proceeded in death by her parents, nephew Tyler Evans, and her long-time partner Jeff Johnson. She is survived by her daughter Ashley (Pat Luckas) Evans – South Range, WI, son Morgan (Shylo) Johnson – South Range, WI, brother Scott Evans – Morgan Park, MN, sister Kelly Evans – Superior. Grandchildren Kiera, Karter, Colton, Tanner and Walker – all of South Range, WI. Nieces Catrina (Chuck) Wuolu – Superior, WI, Hillary & Kendall Evans – Ohio. Great nieces & nephew Caitlynn Wuolu – Superior WI, Kaylynn Evans & Justin Evans – Twin Cities, MN. Step-father Jim Overlie – Duluth, MN and her boyfriend Chad Sletten – Superior, WI. She worked as a beloved server/bartender in Superior, WI most of her life. You would most recognize her from the East End Café where she was a dedicated employee. She was an avid Green Bay Packer fan. She had a recognizable smile and would light up a room. Up until she got sick, fun was always had whenever Michelle was around. She put up a good fight against her illness, she was one tough lady. There will be a backyard celebration of her life on August 8^th, 2026 (1pm-4pm) at 5829 John Ave Superior, WI (BYOB)

Harry I Eliason

Tue, 19 May 2026 12:22:57

Heaven ushered in a hero of the faith on May 18, 2026. Harry Irving Eliason, 85, surrounded by his family was welcomed to his forever home by his Lord and Savior after a courageous but swift battle with cancer. Harry was born in Duluth, MN on December 23, 1940 to parents Walter and Elida Eliason. He was the 7th of 9 children. He graduated from Duluth Denfeld High School in 1959. In 1967 along with James Daly they opened their business, Lakehead Clutch and Brake, where they helped the community brake safely and run smoothly. He retired in 2003 and yet he never really retired. Up until a month and a half before his death he still worked 1 ½ days a week alongside his sons where he continued to share his wisdom, not only in the rebuilding of clutches and brakes but in living a life of integrity. Harry was a part of the local dirt track racing community. He was affectionately known as Horse Power Harold for his expertise in building race car engines for his brother’s, son’s, and grandson’s cars and was looking forward to the next generation of racing with his great grandson. In January of 1961 Harry married the love of his life, Judith Peterson. Together for 65 years they built a life rooted in faith and family. The love of God and family was the theme in Harry’s life, starting with the strong relationships he had with his siblings, especially his brothers. That family bond was strengthened even more as he and Judie raised 4 children and then went on to love and adore 11 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. His family was the joy in his life. Harry attended Faith Baptist Church in Hermantown, MN where he walked out his faith in the saving grace of Jesus Christ each and every day. He was proceeded in death by his son Todd, his parents and parents in law Arnold and Lillian Peterson, his siblings, Gordy, Viola, Eleanor, George, Jim, John and Roger and many extended family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Judie, daughter Kelly Smith (Bob), sons, Tim (Ann) and Troy (Sam). His 11grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren, his remaining sibling Margaret Ripley and many extended family members. He will be greatly missed but what he taught us in faith and family will live on as we honor in our lives the man we loved and looked up to. Now enter into your rest good and faithful servant. A service to honor Harry will be held on Friday, May 22 at Faith Baptist Church in Hermantown MN. 5692 Maple Grove Road Hermantown MN 55811. Visitation will begin at 2pm with a service to follow at 5pm. Dinner and fellowship will follow immediately after the service at the church.

Marilyn D Hougas

Wed, 27 May 2026 19:03:53

Marilyn Delores Hougas (Schultz), age 69, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, in Duluth after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. For the last 20 years she resided with her husband in Two Harbors, MN. She was born on August 18, 1956, In Wakefield,, Nebraska to Clifford Schultz and Delores Schultz (Johnson). Marilyn devoted her life to caring for others both personally and professionally. Throughout her career, she worked as a COTA and CNA at St. Mary’s Hospital, The North Shore Estates, Waterview Shores, Lake View Hospital, and Minnehaha Elementary School. She touched many lives through her compassion, patience, and dedication to helping others. Marilyn was a talented seamstress who loved crafting and creating beautiful things with her hands. More than anything, she treasured time spent with her family. She was the heart and rock of her family — always strong, loving, and dependable. Her smile could light up a room, and she had a remarkable ability to find positivity even in difficult situations. She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Hougas; her children, Jennifer Swanson, James Swanson, and Jonathan Swanson; her grandchildren Anthony, Wyatt, Matthew, Levi and Oliver Swanson; her brothers, John Schultz (Cheryl), Steve Schultz (Becky), Danny Schultz, Robert Schultz (Berta), and half-brother Tim Anderson; along with many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Delores Schultz (Johnson) and Clifford Schultz; her sister, Donna Jean; her brothers, Randy Schultz and Clifford Schultz Jr.; and her aunt, Marlene Johnson. Marilyn will be remembered for her kindness, strength, warmth, and unwavering love for her family. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. A private burial will be held in Earl, WI.

Marjorie J Lehman

Tue, 19 May 2026 10:40:11

Marjorie Jean (Marquette) Lehman, 84, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026 after a long battle with dementia. She was born June 23, 1941 in Buffalo, MN to Leland and Hattie Marquette. She attended Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf in Faribault, MN. She married LeRoy H Lehman, Jr in Febuary 1970. They had two daughters, Lenora Lehman and Natalie (Lehman) Stanley. They had 8 grandchildren, Timothy Lehman, Cameron Stanley, Corey Lehman, Keegan Stanley, Andrew Lehman, Jessica Jacobson, Elizabeth Lehman and Melissa Lehman. She's preceded in death by LeRoy Lehman, Jr, sister, Lillian Randall, brothers Ernest (Buck) Marquette and Gary Marquette, parents Leland and Hattie Marquette. She also was preceded in death by her 1st granddaughter, Ashley Lehman. She is survived by her daughters, Lenora Lehman (Kevin Silvers) and Natalie (Eric) Stanley sister-in-law Arlene Marquette and niece, Nila Spike. A memorial service will be held at Pine Hill Lutheran Church, 5702 Old Hwy 61, in Duluth, MN conducted by Pastor Karen Witowski on Friday, May 22 at 3 pm. Public is welcome and a sign language interpreter will be provided. All cards and flowers can be sent to Natalie Stanley, 2611 Banks Avenue, Superior, WI 54880.

David J. Derbis

Fri, 29 May 2026 15:49:17

It is with heavy yet hopeful hearts, and with profound gratitude and love for a life well lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of David John Derbis on May 13, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota.

Born on May 6, 1944, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, David was one of five beloved children of Helen Hudak Derbis and John Derbis Jr, who preceded him in death, along with his sister, Donna Bergdahl (David). He is survived by his sister, Diane (Andy) Hornstein; his brothers, Jack (Mary) Derbis and Jim (Colleen) Derbis; and his devoted partner, Linda Peterson, who stood by his side 26 years through the joys, wonder, highs and lows of life. Together, they loved spending time at their lovely home in Lake Nebagamon — their own “Lake Wobegon” — and sitting by the fire watching the world go by. They enjoyed time with their dogs, and cruising the Northland including the shores: snacking, listening to music, and enjoying the simple beauty of everyday life.

David’s legacy lives on through his children: Josh Ranta; Kale Derbis and his spouse, Kendall (and their children Katherine and David); Abra Derbis and her spouse, Ben (and their children Neyawynn, Wylder, Oliver, and Max); and John Derbis and his spouse, Katy (and their children Margot, Sloane, and John). His nine grandchildren were fabulous beacons of joy for David, and he delighted in each of their unique spirits. David believed deeply in celebrating the magic of childhood and the transformative power of art, music, and play.

David was proud of his hitchhiking days with his Martin guitar across the country and California, his time in New Orleans filled with great food, music, and people, and his life in Canada where his time was deeply introspective and stoic—what was as much of a spiritual journey as it was physical.

A fiercely passionate artist, an alumnus of the University of Minnesota and later the University of Minnesota Duluth — “Go Dogs” — David earned his Master of Fine Arts, a testament to his lifelong passion for creativity and expression, inspired heavily by the expressionism movement in painting. His career as a counselor allowed him to touch countless lives with empathy, wisdom, and understanding. His time in Hawaii filled David with the spirit and soul of the land, the sea, the air, and the humanity. David was a poet, a folk musician, a wonderful cook, an orator, and a gifted and talented human who saw life as an opportunity to frolic in the mystic.

When he moved his family to Duluth, MN in 1989, David found his niche in the world on the shores of Lake Superior, nestled close to the hills and stream of Chester Bowl where every winter the family would rent skis and brave the -50 degree windchill temps for “one last run.”

A musician’s musician and an artist to his fiber, Dave carried a business card in the 90s that humbly and powerfully declared him simply as “Artist,” a title he bore proudly — forever seeing beyond the painted veil of the world and remaining deeply connected to humanity through a lens not often captured or revered. Dave painted many houses through his business, fell off his share of ladders, developed an art program for the schools in Duluth, and sought to influence the world through Peace and with Love.

David’s passion for equality resonated through his life, delivering those messages of peace, love, and rolling good times. David lived his life as a true merrymaker and troubadour, embodying the essence of the wandering storyteller, believing this land was made for you and me. In high school, his band the “Innsmen” rocked the sock hop and embodied California dreaming.

His creative soul found expression in melodies, vibrant artwork, and the written word, culminating in his book, "Learning to Fly," a collection of lyrics and his own turn of phrase from his heroes that wove the tapestry of his life and his legacy through music and art.

Heavily influenced by the “Tao Te Ching” as well as the “Joy of Cooking,” and his own unique philosophy he called "Dude-ism," David's outlook on life embraced Eastern philosophies blended with his Orthodox Catholic heritage raised Methodist. He could often be found gazing into the fire, remembering his years in Canada and contemplating the magic of the human condition. His approach was one of fortitude and grace, wit and song, always encouraging us to choose to engage with life’s beautiful potential and never forget to bend over and crack a smile. Passionate in his writings—especially letters—David loved Firesign Theater, The Incredible String Band, John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, Emmylou Harris, and Bob Dylan to name a few, and staunchly agreed with The Kingston Trio that he didn’t give a heck about the greenback dollar, spend it as fast as he can. And in case you were ever worried about David, don’t: you can’t catch him, he’s the gingerbread man.

David will be remembered by many for his warm heart, his capacity for unwavering kindness to all living things, and his ability to inspire those around him to see the world through the lens of beauty, possibility, and pacifism. His life was a testament to the power of art to heal, connect, and transform; the power of music to transcend time, space, and consciousness; and the duality of life and love through Yin and Yang. A strong black dark coffee, a soak in the tub doing the crossword puzzle, a cold beer, and BBQ as medicine.

May the music of David’s life continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Mr. moon, moon, bright and shiny moon, won’t you please shine down on me.

“May the long time Sun shine upon you, all love surround you, and the pure light within you guide you along the way.”

We love you dad. We love you so much

Gerald D. Suomala

Fri, 15 May 2026 14:14:19

Gerald Duane Suomala, of Duluth MN, passed away at home on May 10, 2026. Gerald was born on July 18, 1952. He enjoyed saunas, 4-wheeling, snowmobiling, fishing in Canada and going south for the winter. Gerald is survived by his wife Robin, 2 brothers Donald and JoAnne Suomala and Richard and Harriet Suomala, 3 sons Chris and Jodie Suomala, Dale and Yvette Suomala and Daniel and Billie Suomala, along with a great grandchild, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Gerald is predeceased by his parents Tauno and Elizabeth (Betsy) Suomala, and sister Sharon.

Robert H. Schafer

Fri, 08 May 2026 14:12:49

Robert “Bob” Herman Schafer passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 87. Bob was born on May 18, 1938, to Herman and Myrtle (Lunke) Schafer. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethel Lutheran Church in Duluth and was a longtime member of Hope Lutheran Church in Munger. Bob graduated from Denfeld High School in 1956 and later attended UMD for two years. A talented musician, he played for many years both the accordion and piano with Johnny’s Accordianaires. He worked at MN DOT, MP&L, and Carlton County Courthouse retiring in 2000. Bob was first married to June Frear, and together they had four children. After 20 years of marriage, they later divorced. On July 9, 1983, Bob married Darlene (Soderquist) Oachs at Hope Lutheran Church in Munger. They shared 42 happy years together and made their home in Proctor. Bob enjoyed country, line, and square dancing, playing cards with friends, and decorating outdoors for Christmas. His Christmas displays earning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place honors over the years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Myrtle Schafer; his daughter, Susan McCorison; his son, Mark Schafer; stepdaughter Sheila Oachs Kosel; and stepsons Scott and Stanley Oachs. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Darlene; his sons, Dan (Kathy) Schafer and Tom Schafer; son-in-law Richard McCorison; and stepson Steven Oachs (Patty Opoien.) He is also survived by his grandchildren Hannah (Seth), Sarah, Heather, Brandi, Shayne, Anthony, Cassandra, Cosette, Rick Jr., Ryan, Amber, Loren, and numerous step-grandchildren, including Eric, Adriane, Alex, along with many great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. He will also be dearly missed by his many friends and church family. Bob will be remembered for his love of music, dancing, family gatherings, and the kindness he shared with everyone who knew him.