IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Robert "Bob"

Robert "Bob" Johnson Profile Photo

Johnson

April 8, 1941 – January 19, 2025

Obituary

Please Note:  The funeral for Bob Johnson has been uploaded to the video player below.  The funeral starts at 17:36.

Robert "Bob" Johnson, age 83, of Brookings, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Sioux Falls.  Funeral services will be 2 P.M. on Monday, January 27th at Eidsness Funeral Home with burial to follow at First Lutheran Cemetery.  Visitations will be from 3-5 P.M. on Sunday, January 26th, also at Eidsness Funeral Home.

Robert "Bob" Johnson, 83, of Brookings, SD, lived a remarkable life full of love, hard work, and cherished memories. Born on April 8, 1941, in Brookings, Bob grew up with a strong work ethic, beginning jobs at just 8 years old. At 17, he proudly joined the U.S. Army, serving his country from January 14, 1959, to January 13, 1961.

After returning from the Army, Bob attended South Dakota State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in 1975. His return to Brookings also brought him his greatest blessing: meeting the love of his life, Rosalie Ann Schlender, at a dance. Their love story began with a simple question, "Would you like to dance?" On June 16, 1967, they began their almost 50-year journey as husband and wife, raising three children—Chad, Renae, and Tanya—and creating a lifetime of memories.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Bob started working for Moriarity Rentals on May 1, 1961, at just 20 years old. His first project with Paul Moriarity was building 708 Medary, marking the start of a career that spanned over six decades. Bob loved his work—fixing things, connecting with people, and embracing every challenge with enthusiasm.

Bob's life was defined by his passions and the joy he brought to those around him. A proud veteran and member of the American Legion, he enjoyed dancing, water-skiing, shopping for tractors and vehicles, exploring pawnshops, and spending time with his family and friends. He was present at his grandchildren's sporting events, cheering them on with pride and love whenever he could.

Bob's legacy lives on in his children, Chad (Laurie) Johnson, Renae (Terry) Kluess, and Tanya (Kyle) Christensen; his beloved grandchildren, Amber and Jenna Johnson and Carter and Chloe Christensen; his "fur grandpuppy," Jaxon Kluess; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Rosalie, his parents, Della and Carl, his brothers, Don, Dave, and Larry, and his sisters, Vivian and Vennie, as well as many cherished friends and relatives.

Bob will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his infectious laugh, tireless work ethic, and boundless love for his family. His memory will continue to bring warmth and smiles to all who knew him.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert "Bob" Johnson, please visit our flower store.
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Services

Visitations

Calendar
January
26

Eidsness Funeral Home and Cremation Services

1617 Orchard Dr, Brookings, SD 57006

3:00 - 5:00 pm

Funeral Services

Calendar
January
27

Eidsness Funeral Home and Cremation Services

1617 Orchard Dr, Brookings, SD 57006

Starts at 2:00 pm

Robert "Bob" Johnson's Guestbook

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