Robert Phillip "Bob" Pecore

1932 - 2025

Owatonna - Robert "Bob" Phillip Pecore passed away July 28th, 2025, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN, at the age of 92.

Bob was born September 23, 1932, in Menomonie, WI, to Gladys (Roach) and John Pecore. While working as a bellhop one summer at a hotel in Yellowstone National Park, Bob met the love of his life, Evelyn. After they married, he completed his degree in civil engineering from the University of Wisconsin, then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and Reserves and served on active duty in Korea.

Bob and Evelyn settled in Owatonna in 1962 with their two daughters, Sheila and Debra. Bob was deeply involved in the community, serving on the Owatonna School Board from 1969 to 1975 and as a member of the Elks, the Lions Club, and St. John Lutheran Church. He and Evelyn played a key role in bringing girls' gymnastics to Owatonna and were founding members of the Owatonna Arts Center.

Professionally, Bob served as City Engineer for Owatonna, County Engineer for Steele County, and State District Engineer for Southeast Minnesota with the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Bob treasured spending time with his family, including his four grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He enjoyed golf, bowling, and chess, and he was an avid fan of Owatonna High School sports, the Vikings, the Twins, and the Wisconsin Badgers.

Bob is survived by his daughters Sheila Veschusio (Jim) and Debra Stewart; grandchildren Tyler Kratz (Tanya), Robert Stewart (Emily), Brian Stewart, Josh Veschusio (Angela); great grandchildren James, Bridgette, Estella, Graham, Boden, and John; and his sister, Shari Wold. He was preceded in death by his wife Evelyn (2023) and son-in-law Bill Stewart (2015).

A celebration of life will be held at Torey's Restaurant in Owatonna on Friday, August 1, from 1-3pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to St. John Lutheran Church of Owatonna or Owatonna Elks Lodge #1395.