Obituary of Robert Lewis Cass

Robert Lewis Cass age 91 of Grand Rapids and Marble, MN, died Friday, December 1, 2017 at Grand Village Nursing Home, Grand Rapids, MN. He was born May 27, 1926 in Castlewood, SD to Leland and Viola Cass. Bob entered the service in April 1945 and served in Japan, during WWII, through December 1946. After the service he moved to Warroad, MN. Bob married Norma Severson and together they had five children. Eileen (Mike) Hilla, Pat (Ollie) Ollila, Tim (Lynda) Cass, Mark (Anna) Cass and Kevin (Barb) Cass. He later married Jan Apitz adding four more children to his life, David Apitz, Tammy (Bill) Payne, Don (Kathy) Apitz and Aaron (Denise) Apitz. Bob owned and operated a logging truck with his brother and theirs was the first truck to haul logs from the NW Angle. He worked for Roseau County as a heavy equipment operator, working on roads and bridges, plowing and graveling. Bob moved with his family to the Iron Range, eventually making it to Marble, MN, his permanent place of residence. He started with a wheel barrow and shovel and working his way up to a pit foreman for LTV Steel. He served 63 years as an elder in his church, holding many offices and was also active in the Lutheran Layman League. Bob was an avid hunter and fisherman and was instrumental in forming snowmobile clubs, ATV clubs and securing trails through the DNR. Bob was the first Vice President of ATVAM for several years. He started numerous four wheeler clubs. Bob was a board member on the Gilbert OHV Park. He was founder of the Bear Lake Cabin Association, serving as President for many years. Currently, Bob was working for the non-profit, Manna Relief Ministry, working to end childhood malnutrition. Bob had unconditional love for his family and anyone who knew him. He loved his church and was active in many local and state organizations. He touched the lives of many. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers and a sister. He is survived by his wife Jan: his children; 25 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. Gathering of family and friends from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8th with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 200 Ethel St. Marble, MN. Memorial service 11 a.m. Sat. Dec. 9th at Grace Lutheran Church with a luncheon to follow at the Marble City Hall.