Obituary of Robert Finley Tobias

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Robert (Bob) Finley Tobias, 92, announce the passing of our beloved patriarch. We will miss most his zest for life, playful teasing and fighter’s spirit. He was as sweet as the treats he loved to eat. His blue eyes were as bright as his smile and every person who met him came to adore him.

Bob was born in Galesburg, IL and was a watchful big brother to Marilyn Stout. He joined the U.S. Navy at 19-years-old and served in the Korean War. On a blind date, while stationed in Boston, he met his future wife of 63 years, Elaine Sullivan. They started their family in Massachusetts, then moved to Minnesota. Upon Bob’s retirement from Honeywell after 35 years as a computer engineer, they spent 10 years in North Carolina playing golf and enjoying outdoor adventures before returning to Minnesota. Together they raised four children – Stephen Tobias, Michael Tobias, David Tobias, and Christine (Larry) Dyson.

His personal accomplishments include graduating Northeastern University in ’59 as a mechanical engineer and becoming a private pilot in ’72. Always having an inquisitive mind, Bob was a life-long reader and continued his education at the University of Minnesota Duluth’s University for Seniors over the course of 10 years.

Bob was a proud great-grandpa to Wyatt Tobias, Joanna Dyson and Ryder Tobias. He was a supportive and active part in the lives of his 5 grandchildren - Corrina (Jason Haight) Stevens, Christopher (Jean-Marie Andzulis) Tobias, Steven (Emily) Dyson, Adam Dyson and Jesse Dyson. Whether it be cheering them on at countless sporting events, fishing and hiking during summer vacations, or listening to stories of travel abroad, he was present. Grampy’s legacy will live on every time his grandchildren persevere through tough times or “tighten kneecaps,” just like he showed them.

 The family would like to give a special “whoo-whoo” to his caretakers at Westwood Terrace, who appreciated our special guy like we did. Also, thank you to Pastor Noah and the congregation at Holy Cross Lutheran Church who always kept him in their prayers.