Robert L. Hanley

Robert “Bob” Leon Hanley, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, age 102, passed away on September 12, 2024, in Shoreview, Minnesota at St. Therese Hospice. Born on February 6, 1922, in St. Paul, Bob was a proud graduate of Humboldt High School in St. Paul, MN.

Enlisting in the US Navy, Bob courageously served during World War II for five years, including a harrowing three-year internment in a Japanese prison camp. His commitment to service continued with an additional 16 years in the US Army. Bob also dedicated 15 years to 3M Company, contributing significantly to his community and country.

Bob was a devout member of St. Peters Catholic Church in Forest Lake.

His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him through the toughest of times and the happiest of moments.

A man of many passions, Bob loved ballroom dancing, fishing, and golf. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his love for his family. He married his childhood sweetheart, Eileen, and together they raised a loving family. 

Bob is survived by his children, Joan Filson (Bruce), Colleen Robinson, Robert Hanley (Dee), Mary Hanley, and Susan Wahlgren (Nick); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss his wisdom and warmth. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eileen May Hanley, his son, John Robert Hanley, and grandsons, Aaron Drews and John Grant Hanley.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 19, 2024 at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake. Visitation one hour prior to mass at the church. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors, Boys Town, or St. Jude’s in Bob's honor.