Funeral services for Robert “Bob” Friesen, of Starbuck, will be held on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Glenwood Lutheran Church in Glenwood, with Reverend Krista Lee officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery on Monda, Oct. 21, in Little Falls.

Robert Gene Friesen, the son of Hank A. and Chrystal Mae (Schimnowski) Friesen, was born on Oct. 9, 1936, in Windom. He was raised on a farm near Alberta with his eight siblings. Robert attended schools in Windom, Mountain Lake and Alberta, graduating from Alberta High School in 1956. He continued his education at the University of Nebraska in Omaha, Neb., where he studied law enforcement and criminal justice. Robert married Jane Henriksen, and they had three sons: Todd, Timothy and David.

Robert began his military career in the United States Army with the Minnesota Officer Candidate School followed by active-duty service. His career included assignments in Germany (two tours), Stateside, and Vietnam from 1967 to 1968. He also served in the Reserve Forces, including the Minnesota National Guard, Nebraska National Guard and Army Reserves. Robert retired as a Major after 20 years of service and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam.

Robert epitomized public service through his career and volunteer work. He volunteered at the VFW/American Legion in Lowry, Glenwood, and Starbuck. A dedicated patriot, Robert embraced the values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. He was a man of many talents, working in various roles such as at an automotive service station, in law enforcement, and with city utilities in Starbuck. Before retiring, he became a beloved school bus driver for 26 years. Robert enjoyed fishing, collecting, gardening, sports, traveling and spending time with his family.

Robert is survived by his sons, Todd (Marcia) Friesen and Timothy (Carolyn) Friesen; six grandchildren, Blake, Raechel, Erika, Katelyn, Carter and Emily Leigh Jane Friesen; two great-grandchildren, Max and Jaxon; two sisters, Carol (Dave) Groff and Sandra (Doug) Buchann; and sisters-in-law, Judy Friesen, Nancy Friesen, Eli Friesen, Delores Friesen and Donna Friesen.

He was preceded in death by his son, David; his parents, Hank and Chrystal Mae Friesen; and his six brothers, Richard, Russell, Raymond, Ronald, Randall and Weldon (in infancy).

Arrangements for Robert are being handled by Starbuck Funeral Home. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.pedersenhf.com.