Robert "Bob" Beelow

ROBERT ORVILLE BEELOW, age 72, of Janesville, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, at home surrounded by his family - after a long battle with cancer.

“Bob”, “GrayBeard” or “Papa” to those that knew him best, was born on November 16, 1952, in Waseca. He was the son of Harriet (Pagel) and Orville Beelow. He attended Trinity Lutheran School and graduated from Janesville High School with the class of 1970. Bob enlisted into the MN National Guard following graduation, where he served for 6 years before being honorably discharged in 1976. On September 24, 1977, Bob was united in marriage to the love of his life, Paula Eustice. Together they built a home in Janesville. Bob’s first job, after working on the family farm, was with Pluym Masonry in Janesville. Little did he know this would turn into his lifelong passion and career - owning and operating Beelow Masonry. His passion for masonry work was evident in his pride for his craft. He was also extremely proud to have his sons, brothers-in-law, and granddaughter work by his side throughout the years. Bob’s greatest pride was in his five children and twelve grandchildren – always a fierce protector and defender of his family. Even though his job required him to be “tough as nails” he was affectionately called the “baby hog” when it came to his grandkids - always finding a baby asleep on Papa’s chest. While Bob’s love for his kids and grandkids was abundant, his love for Paula will forever be unmatched – true soul mates. Bob and Paula’s love was a true testament to their wedding vows “for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.”

Bob was blessed with an amazing group of friends – he cherished the time they spent bowling, playing softball, horseshoes and, of course, their card nights. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. Later in life, Bob enjoyed playing “bags” - even using physical therapy to help him adjust his throw when his mobility was affected. He’s always enjoyed casino visits and trying his luck with lottery tickets. But most of all, he loved following his children and grandchildren’s activities. Bob was active in his community as a member of the Janesville Jaycees and Irish American Club of Southern Minnesota. Bob and Paula were honored with the title of Mr. and Mrs. Emerald Isle to recognize their involvement in the Irish American Club. They were also Grand Marshal’s for Janesville Hay Daze. Last, but not least, his most prestigious title was – Mr. Legs!

Bob will forever be remembered as a loving, hardworking, protector (and don’t forget “storyteller”) who loved his family. He will be dearly missed.

Bob is survived by the love of his life, Paula of Janesville; their children: Robert Beelow Jr. of Montgomery, Beth (Loren) Kesteloot of Marshall, Michael (Jaimie) Beelow of Le Center, Amanda (Zachary) Loken of Janesville, and John (Jessica) Beelow of Delavan; their grandchildren: Leighton, Declyn, and Taryn Beelow; Hailey, Brianna and Kailyn Kesteloot; McKenna, Wyatt and McCoy Beelow; Madisyn Loken (Benjamin Schrom – Fiancé) and Gavin Loken; and Blake Beelow. He is also survived by his siblings: Shirley (Dale) Huelsnitz of Waseca, Patrick (Karla) Eustice of St. Cloud, Joseph (Renee) Eustice of Ortonville, AnnMarie Eustice-Brygider (John) of Washington, Susan (Tim) Anderson of Walker, Thomas Eustice of Mankato, David (Angie) Eustice of South Carolina, Bernard (Callie) Eustice of Janesville, Willie (Tracy) Eustice of Mankato; brother-in-law, Kenneth Radke of Janesville and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents – Harriet and Orville Beelow; sister - Sharon Radke; in-laws – Patrick and Patricia “Patty” Eustice; sister-in-law - Maureen Eustice; brothers-in-law – Henry “Hank” Eustice and Richard Eustice.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Janesville at Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt. The visitation will continue for one hour prior to the service at church on Wednesday. Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Janesville. Interment with military honors will follow at Smiths Mill Cemetery.