Robert Bjorlin

Robert Dale Bjorlin of Glendale, Arizona, lovingly known as "Bob," passed away on February 9, 2026, surrounded by family and friends he cherished so deeply. He was 74 years old. Though many loved ones were able to be by his side, countless others wished they could have been there to hold his hand, share one more story, or say goodbye - a testament to how deeply he was loved and how many lives he touched.

Bob was born on June 3, 1951, to Cliff and Nonie Bjorlin and grew up on a farm near Donnelly, Minnesota. From an early age, his parents instilled in him a strong faith, a tireless work ethic, and the importance of caring for others - values that shaped the man he would become and guided him throughout his life. He graduated from Morris High School in Morris, MN, in 1969. He also attended Evangel College in Springfield, Missouri, for one year before continuing his life's path. Later, he proudly graduated from Charis Bible College in 2014, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning and his deep devotion to God.

Bob was a man of deep faith, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family. A devoted husband and proud father, he built his life around caring for others and leading by example. He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Edie Bjorlin (née Akers), and was especially proud to be the father of three adopted sons, whom he loved fiercely and wholeheartedly.

He had a heart for serving others and gave generously of his time mentoring youth through volunteer work with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Helping guide and encourage the next generation meant a great deal to him.

Bob also found joy in life's simple adventures. He loved riding motorcycles, spending time outdoors, and hiking the trails of the Grand Canyon. Whether on the open road, on a trail, or working the land, he felt most at peace outside.

At the age of 24, Bob was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, beginning a battle that would last more than 50 years. Yet he never allowed the disease to define him. Instead, he defined it - through his positivity, resilience, unwavering faith, and the steady courage he showed every day. He inspired those around him with his determination, grace, and refusal to give up. Simply put, he was a fighter in every sense of the word.

Along the way, Bob was blessed by the kindness of friends who became caregivers, offering their time, compassion, and steady support during his journey. His family is deeply grateful to Bryan Kolpin, Stacey Randall, and Mary Sweers for the care, comfort, and dignity they provided him, and his wife, Edie, is forever grateful for the love and devotion they showed during his most difficult days.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Edie Bjorlin (née Akers); his cherished sons, Weston, Michael, and Chris; his sister, Diane Amundson, her husband Gary, and their son Cody; his aunts, Doris Bjorlin and Vivian Bjorlin; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Nonie Bjorlin.

Bob will be remembered for his steady presence, steadfast faith, servant's heart, strength through adversity, and the love he gave so freely. His legacy lives on in the family he raised, the young lives he mentored, and the many people he touched. He fought hard, loved deeply, and will be missed beyond words.

Funeral services will be held in both Minnesota and Arizona:

On Saturday, March 21, a service will be held in Minnesota at Hosanna Worship Center, 46303 MN-28, Morris, MN 56267. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be provided.

On Saturday, April 18, a service will be held in Arizona at Community of Grace, 10561 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Peoria, AZ 85383. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be provided.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests that donations be made in Bob's memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Bob often spoke a blessing over family and friends on birthdays, special occasions, and meaningful moments in their lives. It was more than a verse to him - it was his heartfelt prayer for those he loved. This was Bob's blessing for everyone:

"The LORD bless you and keep you;

the LORD make His face shine on you and be gracious to you;

the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace."

- Numbers 6:24–26