Robert Grove

Robert Grove, 77, of Willmar, died Thursday, March 14th at his home surrounded by his family.  There will be a visitation Sunday, March 24th, from 12:00 pm (noon) - 2:00 pm, at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar followed by a private family service and burial at Calvary Lutheran Cemetery in Willmar.

Robert H. “Bob” Grove was born May 13, 1941, in Fairmont, MN, the son of Harold and Bernice (Petry) Grove- Engfer.  The family lived in Adrian, prior to moving to Alexandria when Bob was in grade school.  He graduated from Alexandria High School in 1960.  Following graduation, Bob attended Moorhead State College until he enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1963, out of Alexandria.  He served 6 years as a Specialist Sixth Class E-6.  Following his service, he attended Morris State College before graduating from Alexandria Technical School in drafting. On November 5, 1966, Bob was united in marriage to Kathleen Blabaum at Trinity Lutheran Church in Montevideo. Bob began working for Electric Machinery Manufacturing Company in Minneapolis before they moved one year later and made their home in Willmar.   Here, he began his career with Willmar Manufacturing/Agco Manufacturing as a chief draftsman and then technical editor.  In their union, they were blessed with two children, Rob in 1971 and Kellie in 1977.

Bob enjoyed spending time with his family at their cabin on Lake Ida, near Alexandria.  He loved water sports and boating.  So many wonderful memories taking the kids and grandkids boating, skiing and tubing in the summer!   He was an avid reader and loved history.  He enjoyed traveling throughout the U. S. with family.  Bob was so proud of his children, Rob & Kellie, and loved all four of his grandchildren.  He had very fond memories of Colten and Clay when he first met them - Little Clay always running upstairs and saying “Hi Grandpa!!” and watching both boys wrestle at tournaments and playing baseball in the front yard.  And then came Cavin with his tractors and Kylie Jo and her gymnastics! 

Bob was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith.  He was a longtime member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar.

Surviving are his devoted and loving wife of 53 years, Kathy; children, Robert Allen of St. Cloud; Kellie Jo (and Carl) Carlson of Pennock; and his grandchildren: Colten, Clay, Cavin and Kylie Jo.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

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