Robert “Bob” Wolff, age 71, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025, following complications related to his service during Desert Storm. His passing leaves a tremendous emptiness in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Born May 12, 1954, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Bob spent his childhood in White Bear Lake. It was there, in junior high, that he met the love of his life, Agnes Bergeron—the girl who would become his constant companion, partner, and best friend for more than five decades. Bob graduated from White Bear Lake High School with the Class of 1973, and shortly before graduation, he and Agnes were united in marriage at St. Pius X Catholic Church on January 27, 1973.
Soon after their wedding, Bob enlisted in the United States Army. He went on to serve his country faithfully for nearly twenty years between active duty and the National Guard, including proud and honorable service during Desert Storm. His commitment to duty reflected his character: steadfast, protective, and devoted.
After his military career, Bob worked for Grossgiven Manufacturing as both a welder and later a painter. Together, he and Agnes raised their family in North Saint Paul, creating a home full of love, laughter, and the occasional well-timed prank. Bob was a natural jokester—always ready with a practical joke or a playful remark—and his familiar phrase, “You know what? Oh well,” became a signature expression of his easygoing spirit.
Once their children were grown, Bob and Agnes moved to Ottertail Lake, where he embraced the peaceful joy of spending time on the water and fishing. As his health began to decline, they moved closer to the Twin Cities to be nearer to family and medical support—an environment where his protective heart could rest knowing his loved ones were close.
Bob had a deep appreciation for art, collecting paintings and unique wood furniture pieces that spoke to his eye for craftsmanship. When he was healthy, he and Agnes loved to travel, and he never returned from a trip without finding a special charm to add to her bracelet—a quiet tradition symbolizing his enduring love.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, James Wolff Sr. and Lois Boiteau; sister, Sheryl Byars; and brother, James Wolff Jr.
He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Agnes; his children, Rebecca Wolff, Bonnie (Jon) Peters, Bob (Dawn) Wolff, Jessica (Dustin) Reiling, Brian Wolff, Elizabeth Wolff, Naomi (Tony Czech) Wolff, and David (Kate) Wolff; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends whose lives were brightened by his humor, loyalty, and love.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service. Private interment will take place at Oakwood Cemetery in Red Wing, Minnesota.
Bob’s life was one marked by service, devotion, laughter, and unwavering love. His legacy lives on in the family he protected, the stories he shared, and the memories he leaves behind.
Mattson Funeral Home & Cremation Service
Mattson Funeral Home
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