Robert Arthur Herman Bonkoski, Jr.

March 9, 1940 – October 8, 2025

Robert Arthur Herman Bonkoski, Jr. passed away suddenly on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Trinity Terrace in Farmington, Minnesota. He was 85 years old.

Robert was born on March 9, 1940, in St. James, Minnesota, the loving son of Robert Arthur William Bonkoski and Evelyn (Schwanz) Bonkoski. He attended parochial school in Louisville, MN, later attending school in Comfrey and graduating from Mountain Lake High School in 1958.

Following graduation, Robert proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1961, stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. On November 18, 1967, he was united in marriage to Beverly Balgaard in Evansville, MN. Together, they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage.

Robert began his career with Northwestern Refining Company and spent most of his professional life with Burlington Northern Railroad, where he worked in the payroll department.

Robert had a deep and abiding faith in Jesus Christ. He served for many years as an elder at his church in Alexandria, MN, and later volunteered at the food shelf at Messiah Lutheran Church in Lakeville, MN.

A lifelong sports fan, Robert loved cheering for the Minnesota Twins, Vikings, and North Stars. He enjoyed fishing trips across Minnesota, spending time on the lake, and hosting fish dinners with his catch. He also bowled on a local team and treasured the fellowship that came with it. Above all, Robert cherished time with his family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter, love, and faith.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Evelyn Bonkoski, and his brother, Allen Bonkoski.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly Bonkoski; children Julie Bonkoski of Minneapolis, James (Nikki) Bonkoski of Rosemount, and Jennifer (Brian) Lee of Bradenton, Florida; grandchildren Nicholas Lee, Jeremy Lee, Hazel Bonkoski, and Sawyer Bonkoski; and Roberts siblings Judy Bonkoski of Lakeville, MN, Jerry (Judy) Bonkoski of Prior Lake, MN, Eileen Bonkoski of Coon Rapids, MN, LeRoy (Deborah) Bonkoski of Traverse City, MI, Rev. Neil (Nancy) Bonkoski of Isanti, MN and Rev. Lori Bonkoski of Hills, MN.

Services

Visitation: Friday, October 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM

Funeral Service: 11:00 AM, with lunch to follow

Messiah Lutheran Church

16725 Highview Avenue

Lakeville, MN 55044

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Feed My Starving Children or your local food bank in Robert’s memory.