Robert Bollesen, 56, died on Monday, January 10, 2005 at the CNC Unit of Northwest Medical Center in Thief River Falls, MN, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Robert Edward Bollesen was born on December 13, 1948 in Tyler, MN, the son of Reuben and Ardyce (Sour) Bollesen. He was baptized and confirmed at Danebod Lutheran Church in Tyler, MN. He attended school in Tyler, graduating from Tyler High School. Rob graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture Education in 1970 and later earned his Masters Degree in Education.

Rob was united in marriage to Nona Dennin on June 20, 1970 in Balaton, MN. The couple moved to Little Falls, MN where Rob was Ag Teacher for 7 years, then Nona and Rob moved to Milaca, MN where Rob was Vocational Director at the Mille Lacs Vocational Center. In 1985 they moved to Thief River Falls, MN, where Rob was hired as Customized Training Director. He later taught Adult Farm Management and then became Regional Dean of Management Education. He retired on October 14, 2004.

Robert was lovingly called Rob by his family and Bob by his co-workers and friends. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, downhill skiing, bowling, golfing, trap shooting and spending time with his friends and family. He especially liked making toys for his grandsons and was lovingly known as Bedstefar, which is Danish for grandfather.

Rob was awarded the Honorary American Farmer Degree and State Farmer Degree.

Rob is survived by his wife, Nona, of Thief River Falls, MN; one son, Russell (Kim) Bollesen of Farmington, MN; one daughter, Robin (Jason) Engen of Inver Grove Heights, MN; twin grandsons: Maxwell and Keigan Bollesen; two sisters: Lenne (Mike) Holland of Blue Earth, MN and Nealna Punky (Don) Gylling of Princeton, MN; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.