Robert "Bobkat" Keezer

Robert "Bobkat" Keezer Sr. ("Gidagaa-Bizhiw") age 53, of Mahnomen, MN, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

Robert Edward Keezer was born on September 24, 1971, in Minneapolis, MN, to Everett and Betty (Belland) Keezer. He grew up in the area and attended Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School, graduating with the Class of 1991. In 2004, he earned his associate degree in business from the tribal college.

Throughout his life, Bobkat stayed busy and hardworking. He held a variety of jobs over the years, including roofing and contract work, manual labor, and dealing blackjack and poker. He was especially proud to own and operate Keezer's Corner Pawn and Payday Loans in Mahnomen. On April 12, 2011, Bobkat married JoAnn Osburn, and together they created a close-knit blended family.

Bobkat was truly a jack of all trades and could often be found tinkering with projects or keeping things running at the pawn shop. He loved spending time outdoors, especially leeching, ricing, and sapping. Proud of his Ojibwe heritage, he carried those traditions with him throughout his life. More than anything, he treasured time with his grandchildren.

Known for his stubborn streak and his sharp sense of humor, Bobkat had a way of making an impression wherever he went. His laugh, quick wit, and larger-than-life personality will be remembered fondly and missed deeply by his loved ones.

Bobkat is survived by his wife, JoAnn Keezer; children: Amber, Aiden, Alyssa, Desirae, Robert Jr., Chris, Daniel, Chance, Kyle, Zachary, Sharina, Preston, Destiny, and Joshua; many grandchildren, a soon-to-be-born granddaughter; and one soon-to-be-born great-grandson; siblings: Darcey Belland, Holly Alger, Frank Keezer, Joe Bush Sr., and Calvin Sampson. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings; infant son, baby boy Keezer; grandson, Roman; and many extended family members.

Traditional Services will be held at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. All-night Wake Services will begin Tuesday, September 23, 2025, starting at 5:00 pm with a ceremony at 7:00 pm and continue until the time of the service on Wednesday. Burial will take place at Samuel Memorial Episcopal Cemetery in Naytahwaush, MN.