Robert Gordon LOFTUS

Joined God on Tuesday, January 25th, 2022 after 91 years of loving service in this world. Bob wore a plethora of titles and hats (literally and figuratively) throughout his life. Partner. Patriarch. Parent. Priest. Published poet. Playing cards. Pitcher. Pugilist. Pub patron. Pet-owner. Pretzel eater. Public speaker. Passionate person. Bob served the diocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis faithfully for 14 years as a Catholic priest in a variety of parishes in the Twin Cities metro area. After formally leaving this ministry, he and his wife Mary Jo married and continued a life of service by starting one of the first nonprofit home care and private duty companies in Minnesota. For 29 years, the couple helped provide opportunities for independent living and supportive care for those looking to maintain their dignity through their golden years. For parts of his life he was studying archeology in the Middle East or focusing on church reform. At other times, he was a championship winning little league coach, twice published poet, built a labyrinth on his childhood property, played violin and sneaked in a few rounds of golf in warm weather. It seemed only fitting that his last days with us were spent in Arizona surrounded by family in the place he enjoyed getting out on the links, taking dips in the hot tub and watching picturesque sunsets. He is preceded in death by daughter, Sarah Mary, parents Thomas and Margaret, siblings & in-laws Eileen & Bill David, Roy & Marion Loftus and Dick & Mary Kay Loftus. Bob is survived by his wife of 45 years Mary Jo Major Schilling Loftus, sons Tom (wife Robin), Joe (wife Jessica) and Shawn plus three granddaughters Jackie, Kelsey and Vivian Loftus, numerous nieces and nephews, ordination classmates and countless friends. A wake will take place at Washburn-McReavy Northeast Chapel (2901 Johnson St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418) on Thursday, February 3rd from 4-6:30pm. Prayer service at 6:30pm. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial Friday, February 4th at 11am at St. Joan of Arc Church (4537 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419) with viewing beginning at 10am. This Mass is for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Mary's Mission in Red Lake, Minnesota or Dougherty Family College at University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis.