Robert Erling "Bob" Klungness

Robert Erling "Bob" Klungness, age 89, of Lakeville, MN, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026.

Bob was born on May 9, 1936, in Superior, Wisconsin, the son of Erling and Margit (Osthaugen) Klungness. A proud 1954 graduate of Superior Central High School, Bob's lifelong commitment to learning led him to earn two master's degrees from Superior State College and the University of Minnesota.

On August 25, 1962, Bob married Betty Hanson. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage and raised two daughters, Karen and Kathy.

Bob dedicated over 30 years to teaching science, beginning his career in Barron, Wisconsin, before moving to Olson Junior High and Jefferson High School in Bloomington, Minnesota. A trailblazer in outdoor education, he organized an "Outdoor School" at the Environmental Learning Center, bringing his classroom into the wilderness.

An accomplished coach, Bob led successful cross-country running and skiing teams and was inducted into the Bloomington Jefferson Coaches Hall of Fame. His passion for the outdoors was a family affair; he spent countless hours running, Nordic skiing, biking, golfing, and canoeing with those he loved. A highlight was serving as a timer for the Nordic skiing events at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, NY.

After retiring, Bob turned his energy toward woodworking, crafting many beautiful pieces, including a family sauna. He was a starter at Crystal Lake Golf Course. He enjoyed winters in Fort Myers, Florida, where he golfed and shared his love of nature as a tour guide at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve.

Bob will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his dedication to his students and athletes, and his boundless curiosity for the world around him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Erling and Margit Klungness.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Betty; daughters Karen Schmitz (Jim) and Kathy Van Guilder (Steve); grandchildren Alexandra Van Guilder (Corey Dea), Matt Schmitz (Paige), and Anna Schmitz (Cole Windmar); great-grandson Charlie; brothers John (Meg) and Jim (Diane); and many nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to the staff at The Meadows and St. Croix Hospice for their incredible love and care.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Prince of Peace Mission Outpost or the UW-Superior Alumni and Friends Foundation (Lake Superior Research Institute).

Celebration of Life, Tuesday, March 17, 2026, Price of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville, MN

Visitation 10 AM, Service 11 AM.

Condolences: www.whitefuneralhomes.com