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Bob will be remembered for his joyful spirit, his determination, his love of travel, his loyalty to his beloved Vikings and Twins.

Robert “Bob” Leader, beloved resident of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away on September 7th at the age of 72. Bob did not simply live in Thief River Falls—he thrived there, building a life filled with friendship, family, accomplishment, and great joy.

Bob possessed a wonderful enthusiasm for life. He especially loved spending time with his dog, Princess. He also had a love for travel and some of his happiest early memories were made while exploring new places with his parents, Norman and Ruth. Later in life, that treasured tradition continued with his brother, Gary, and sister-in-law, Carol. Together, they took several cruises—adventures Bob eagerly anticipated each year. For him, the excitement was not only in visiting somewhere new, but in sharing each journey with the people he loved. Bob greatly enjoyed trips to the casino with his sister Ellen, and brother-in-law, Mark.

Bob was also a devoted Minnesota sports fan. He loved the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins and looked forward with great excitement to the beginning of every new season. Each opening day brought fresh hope, anticipation, and another opportunity for Bob to cheer on his favorite teams. Whether celebrating a win or remaining loyal through a difficult season, Bob was always a true fan.

One of Bob’s proudest accomplishments was being named a “King” of TOPS—Take Off Pounds Sensibly. This special honor recognizes an exceptional member who successfully reached a medically established goal weight through commitment, perseverance, and healthy lifestyle changes. TOPS created its King and Queen recognition to celebrate members like royalty for their remarkable achievements. Bob earned that crown through hard work and determination, and his family could not have been prouder of him.

Yet Bob’s greatest legacy cannot be measured by an award or accomplishment. It is found in the happiness he brought to others, the memories made during family adventures, and the many people whose lives were better because he was part of them.

Bob was deeply loved by his relatives and by his devoted family at Johnson’s Riverside Residence, who surrounded him with friendship, care, companionship, and a true sense of belonging. They were not simply part of his daily life—they were family, and the love they shared with Bob meant more than words can express.

Bob will be remembered for his joyful spirit, his determination, his love of travel, his loyalty to his beloved Vikings and Twins, and the special way he embraced the people and experiences that made his life meaningful. He leaves behind a family grateful for every cruise, every game, every celebration, every shared laugh, and every precious moment spent together.

Bob was loved beyond measure and will be missed more than words can say. His was a life well lived, a life filled with adventure and belonging, and—most importantly—a life surrounded by love.

Bob is survived by his brother, Laurence Larson; nieces and nephews, Jim (Danielle) Larson, Cristy (Peter) Sorensen, Dennis (Beth) Langevin, Tina (Jeff) Spiering, Pete Larson, Velvet Langevin, Tammy (Chad) Pesch, Chad (Tammy) Larson, Mary (Jim) Nephew, and Casey (Melissa) Larson; and many great-nieces and nephews, relatives, and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Ruth; brother, Gary Larson and his wife Carol; sister, Ellen Langevin and her husband, Mark; and many other relatives.

A celebration of life for Bob will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, MN with Rev. Christy Klemz officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Attendees are encouraged to wear their Minnesota Vikings or Minnesota Twins apparel.