OBITUARY: Robert J. (Bob) Balgaard
Robert J. (Bob) Balgaard, age 78 of Rhinelander, died Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at Saint Clare’s Hospital in Weston, surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born July 13, 1937 in Duluth, Minn. to Forrest and Eileen (Maher) Balgaard. He graduated from Duluth Cathedral High School in 1955. He attended the University of Minnesota – Duluth for one year. Bob served in the Duluth Air National Guard for six years. He wed the former Denise Jerome in 1958. Bob was employed by Sherwin-Williams in Duluth and transferred to Rhinelander in 1964. He later worked for Kofler’s Furniture, Hildebrand Furniture and Forth Floral. He was a member of St. Joseph’s (Nativity of Our Lord) Church. During his life he enjoyed partridge hunting, league bowling and especially liked golfing with his many friends. Bob cherished time spent with his family and loved them dearly.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Denise (Dee Dee) of Rhinelander; three wonderful children, Julie (Allan) Jozwiak, Sue (Stan) Fritz, both of Rhinelander and Michael Balgaard of Eagle River; six grandchildren, Jenny, Bill (Jen) and Matt Gleason, Marc and Megan Fritz and Shane Balgaard; seven great-grandchildren, Evan, Levi, Lily, Kyli, Ryder, Delaino and Brooklyn; brothers, Patrick (Eileen) Balgaard of Hibbing Minn. and Thomas (Shirley) Balgaard of Kenosha; nieces, nephews, other family and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws and a granddaughter, Nicole.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the EMTs, Ministry St. Mary’s Hospital and St. Clare’s Hospital for the excellent and compassionate care given to Bob and his family. A Memorial Mass will be held Monday, June 20 at 11 a.m., with visiting hours from 9 to 11 a.m., all at the Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church – St. Mary’s site. Deacon Ronald Bosi will officiate. In lieu of other expression of sympathy, a memorial is being established in Bob’s name and can be directed to his family. You may leave your private condolences for the Balgaard family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home is handling the arrangements for the Balgaard family.
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