Obituary of Robert Lee Thomas

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” Lee Thomas at the age of 54.

Bob was adopted at birth by Richard (Dick) Lee and Mary Jane Thomas of Red Wing, Minnesota. After the passing of his father when Bob was just nine, he was raised by his devoted mother, Mary, who stood by him with strength and care.

A gifted student, Bob graduated in the top of his class from Red Wing Central High School, then went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in English from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul.

Bob married Jen LaVelle on June 13, 1997, and together they spent nearly three decades raising a family, building a life, and navigating the beauty and chaos of those years side by side. Though they later divorced, their time together remained a significant and formative part of his life.

Bob’s career spanned more than 27 years, each role a stepping stone in his mission to serve others. Helping people wasn’t just part of his job — it was a core tenet of who he was and how he approached his work and life.

The great joys of Bob’s life were his daughters, Genevive (of Penn State) and Gabriella (of Arizona). He found deep meaning in friendship, laughter, and especially the Mississippi River — a place that was never just “simple” to him, but rich with life, memory, and connection. He loved fishing, helping others, smiling easily, and creating fun wherever he went.

Bob had a lifelong goal to canoe the length of the Mississippi River, a dream rooted deep in his love for the water and the places it carried him. Together with his lifelong friend and brother, Curt, he completed nearly two thousand miles of that mighty river — mile by mile, camp by camp. Tragically, just 375 miles remained unseen. That unfinished stretch speaks not of what was missed, but of the incredible distance he traveled — in water, in friendship, and in life.

Bob was also — proudly and unapologetically — the reigning ice fishing champion (rightfully so) of the Johnson Lake Circuit, following nearly a decade of domination in the league. That title wasn’t just a trophy — it was a bond with lifelong (and new) friends, a tradition, and a reflection of his sharp instinct, competitive fire, and skill.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Mary Thomas.

He is survived by his daughters, Genevive and Gabriella; his brother Tim; nephew Elliot; Jennifer Thomas; two half-brothers; and his birth parents. He also leaves behind lifelong (and new) friends who became chosen family — Curt, Gerrick, and Kevin — as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who adored him.

Bob was known for his unmistakable presence, big heart, and unapologetic spirit. He lived with integrity, loved without hesitation, and left a lasting mark on everyone who truly knew him.

He is deeply missed, forever remembered, and endlessly loved.

Service is Friday, May 16, 2025 at 11:00am followed by a reception at the church

A recording will be available:
www.wayzatacommmunitychurch.org/memorials

Wayzata Community Church
120 Wayzata Blvd E
Wayzata MN 55391

Memorials preferred for his daughters' educations.