Obituary of Bob Johnson

Age 87, formerly of Eagan, Bob passed away at home on June 2nd, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, and friend. He lived his life with purpose, passion, and love.

Bob was born on August 29th, 1937 in Wells, MN. He spent his childhood in St. Paul and graduated from McKinley High School in LeCenter in 1955. He married his high school sweetheart, Maureen Lang in 1957. He attended Macalester College on a football scholarship and graduated in 1959 with a double major in English and Physical Education. He began his teaching and coaching career in Amery, WI before returning to St. Paul for his decades-long career as a high school teacher, and wrestling and football coach for St. Paul Public Schools.  

After Maureen’s passing in 1965, Bob was blessed to find the new love of his life, Jeanette Hansen, and they were married in November of 1966. They spent over thirty wonderful years together raising their three children. They kept the romance alive with traditions like their beloved Friday Night Steak Night every week. His devotion to her was boundless, and he treasured every moment with her until her passing in 1997.

Bob took great pride in his second job as a carpenter during his summer months, and he continued that work after his retirement from teaching. He was best known for building decks and additions, but he took on a variety of projects. His last job was building a set of steps at the age of 86. Through this work he made many lifelong friends, whether it was the “employees” of RC Johnson Construction Company or the customers he served.

In his free time, Bob enjoyed boating, playing cards, singing karaoke, and hosting social gatherings with his friends and family. He was always up for playing his banjo at parties, to the delight of all. He was also a lifelong Minnesota sports fan, whether it was wrestling, golf, basketball, baseball, or football. His favorite teams were the Gophers, Twins, and Vikings. This is a passion that he proudly passed on to all 3 of his children and grandchildren.

Bob’s children were his greatest source of pride. He loved to watch Bobby play baseball and later coach, he relished the many family gatherings that Lori hosted, and admired Dana’s artistic talents. He was the #1 fan to his five grandchildren and great grandchild, and spent most of his free time cheering on all their pursuits. The many friends that came into his life also regarded him as a father figure. To have known Big Bob/Papa J is to have been loved by him.  

Bob is preceded in death by wife Jeanette, and his late first wife Maureen Lang; parents, Robert Buell and Dorothy Clark; and mother in law, Adeline Hansen. Survived by children Bob (Michelle), Lori (Rich) Keuler, and Dana (Eric Clark) Baird; grandchildren, Blake (Charity), Conner (Jade), Braden, Hannah (Nicola) Keuler, and Ben (Nicole) Keuler; great granddaughter, Aurora; sister in law, Linda Hansen; brother, James; nephews, Robert C. (Georgia) and Michael (Lisa); and numerous extended family and friends.  

A service is being held June 20th at St John Neumann Catholic Church, 4030 Pilot Knob Rd, Eagan MN 55122 (www.sjn.org) at 10AM with visitation at 9AM. Luncheon to follow at the church. Private interment will be held at Resurrection Cemetery in Mendota Heights.

If you unable to join the family in person they invite you to watch the service online. 

https://www.youtube.com/@SJNChannel/streams