Robert Gene Friesen

Funeral services for Robert “Bob” Friesen of Starbuck, MN will be held Friday, October 18, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Glenwood Lutheran Church in Glenwood, MN, with Reverend Krista Lee officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls, MN.

Robert Gene Friesen, the son of Hank A. and Chrystal Mae (Schimnowski) Friesen, was born on October 9, 1936, in Windom, Minnesota. He was raised on a farm near Alberta, MN, with his eight siblings. Robert attended schools in Windom, Mountain Lake, and Alberta, graduating from Alberta High School in 1956. He continued his education at the University of Nebraska in Omaha, NE, where he studied law enforcement and criminal justice. Robert married Jane Henriksen, and they had three sons: Todd, Timothy, and David.

Robert began his military career in the United States Army with the Minnesota Officer Candidate School followed by active-duty service. His career included assignments in Germany (two tours), Stateside, and Vietnam from 1967 to 1968. He also served in the Reserve Forces, including the Minnesota National Guard, Nebraska National Guard, and Army Reserves. Robert retired as a Major after 20 years of service and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam.

Robert epitomized public service through his career and volunteer work. He volunteered at the VFW/American Legion in Lowry, Glenwood, and Starbuck. A dedicated patriot, Robert embraced the values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. He was a man of many talents, working in various roles such as at an automotive service station, in law enforcement, and with city utilities in Starbuck. Before retiring, he became a beloved school bus driver for 26 years. Robert enjoyed fishing, collecting, gardening, sports, traveling, and spending time with his family.

Robert is survived by his sons, Todd (Marcia) Friesen and Timothy (Carolyn) Friesen; six grandchildren: Blake, Raechel, Erika, Katelyn, Carter, and Emma Leigh Jane Friesen; two great-grandchildren, Max and Jaxon and two sisters Carol and Sandra. He was preceded in death by his son David; his parents Hank and Chrystal Mae Friesen; and his six brothers Richard, Russell, Raymond, Ronald, Randall and Weldon (at infancy). 

In lieu of flowers, memorial are preferred and will be distributed among Robert’s favorite charities. Starbuck Funeral Home is in care of the arrangements for Robert.