Robert "Bob" Elgin Loeffler, 78, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and friends at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Bob was born on August 15, 1947, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, to Elgin Joseph and Gladys Fern (Bakke) Loeffler.

Bob grew up in Thief River Falls and attended St. Bernard’s School and Lincoln High School, graduating in 1965. He was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith. From a young age, Bob learned the value of hard work while working alongside his father in the family construction business. He later owned his own used car business before returning to construction and eventually working in pipeline construction until his retirement. His strong work ethic and determination were evident throughout his life.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Army from October 1966 to October 1968 and was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. His service reflected his sense of duty and commitment.

On May 8, 1976, Bob was united in marriage with the love of his life, Judith “Judy” (Roisland), at Zion Lutheran Church. Through their union, they raised their four children, Jeri, Natalie, Bobbie, and Shane, and built a life filled with memories, family, laughter, and love. After Judy’s passing, Bob deeply missed her companionship and the life they shared together.

Bob cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter. Family gatherings, laughter, and memories made together brought him great joy. He took great pride in his family and watching them grow.

Bob had a lifelong passion for automobiles. As the owner of his used car business, he traveled to Illinois to purchase vehicles at auctions, always searching for his next great deal. A Chevy man through and through, his beloved 1968 Corvette Stingray with a 427-cubic-inch, 435-horsepower engine, his “baby,” held a special place in his heart. He proudly shared pictures and videos of himself doing burnouts in it, and many around town heard Bob coming before they ever saw him. He enjoyed classic cars, racing, and sharing his passion with others.

Hockey was another lifelong passion. Having played in his younger years, Bob enjoyed sharing the game with his son and two grandsons. He took great pride in watching them play and was always ready with advice and encouragement from the stands.

Bob enjoyed playing Pinochle with friends at the VFW, where many mornings were spent visiting and sharing stories. He never met a stranger and had the gift of gab, making friends wherever he went. Whenever music was playing, there was a good chance he could be found dancing with a smile on his face.

Bob was a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2793, American Legion Post 117, Eagles Aerie 2368, and the Laborers’ Local 49ers Union.

Bob is survived by his children: Jeri of St. Cloud, Minnesota; Natalie of Rochester, Minnesota; Bobbie of Thief River Falls, Minnesota; and Shane of Durham, North Carolina; grandchildren Kyle, Tysen, Nevaeh, Belah, and Evan; great-granddaughter Gracelyn; brothers Tim (Kristine) Loeffler of Thief River Falls and Tony Loeffler of the Twin Cities; sisters-in-law Kathy Loeffler, Arlyce Roisland, and Kathy Bryant; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy; his parents, Elgin and Gladys Loeffler; brother Wayne Loeffler; sister Meri Loeffler; brothers-in-law Thomas Roisland Jr. and Jerry Roisland; niece Nicole Loeffler; and nephew Jerrad Roisland.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Mayo Clinic and the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Bob and his family.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, determination, and love. He will be remembered for his humor, his stories, his passions, and the many lives he touched. After missing Judy deeply, his family finds comfort knowing they are together again.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."

The Celebration of Life for Bob will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM with a 6:00 PM Prayer Service on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. Family and friends are invited for a light meal and fellowship following the service.