Robert Joseph Minnick

I was saddened to learn late last night of Bob Minnick's passing away. I have not seen Bob in some time, but I remember him well as a dedicated colleague and a friend for many years on the MHS faculty. In addition to being dedicated to his craft he was a truly devoted family man. The children that he and Norma sent to MHS were model students and citizens. (Bobby was one of my all time favorite MHS student/athletes, one whom I admire greatly.) Please share my grief with the entire family.

Over forty years ago on Christmas eve in his red suit Santa (aka Bob Minnick) arrived after dinner at our home on 332 W. Third St. (Ironically the room he sat in that night with our four sons was part of the addition to our home that Bob had built a few years before.) That evening visit remains a family highlight, one we refer to from time to time at family gatherings. Bob prepared well, not only with his impeccable Santa outfit but also in learning enough about each of our four boys to make the visit seem more personal. In conversation with Santa each boy revealed a list of his Christmas wishes, what he hoped Santa (Bob) would deliver the following morning. One boy even produced a long list he had written out, and another went to get cookies from the kitchen to offer Santa. Not one of the boys gave any hint of knowing who Santa was. The magic of Christmas was alive in our home that evening.
We were able to video the event and plan to share it with our grandchildren later when the concept of Santa is better understood. But that Christmas eve remains a special time in our family lore. Thanks Bob and may you rest in peace.