Robert Duane Pape Jr.

Robert Duane Pape Jr., 94, of rural East Grand Forks, Minnesota, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Valley 4000 Hearthstone.

He was born on March 6, 1932, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the son of Robert Pape Sr. and Louella (Laidley) Pape. He attended Banner 51 country school in Polk County, Minnesota, and later the Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston, Minnesota.

He was united in marriage to Donna Miller on March 29, 1953, in rural East Grand Forks, Minnesota. They were happily married for 72 years, 11 months, and 28 days. The couple resided on the family farm in rural East Grand Forks, where Robert farmed until his retirement.

After retirement, Bob and Donna spent many winters in Arizona and summers fishing on Lake of the Woods. They never missed a polka event. He always loved staying updated on what was happening on the farm.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Pape of Grand Forks, North Dakota; daughter, Candice Ferguson of Grand Forks, North Dakota; sons, Rodger Pape of West Fargo, North Dakota, and Ronald (Sharleen) Pape of East Grand Forks, Minnesota; grandchildren, Ross, Adam, and Sara; many great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy Danielson; and half-sister, Carol Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Louella Pape; stepmothers, Clara Pape and Henrietta Pape; brother, Rodney Pape; sister, Marjorie Gowan; grandsons, Riley Pape and Ryan Pape; and son-in-law, Michael Ferguson.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers throughout the years for their kind support and prayers.

SERVICE: Monday, March 30 at 2:00 PM, Valley Senior Living on 42nd in the Auditorium

VISITATION: Monday, March 30 1:00-2:00 PM, Valley Senior Living on 42nd in the Auditorium

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