Bob (Robert James) Mackey

St. Paul, MN

Bob passed away peacefully Tuesday afternoon, December 23, 2025. He was under hospice care with family by his side.

Bob was born July 23, 1935, the son of Robert and Elizabeth (Noble) Mackey in Pipestone, MN.  In 1953 he graduated from Fairmont High School where he was recognized for is strong sense of humor. It was a charming part of his character throughout his life. He attended the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities (the U) where he realized his interest in technology and systems.  He went from draftsman to managing telecommunications for the U. He left the U for an opportunity at US West where he worked until he retired.

While at the U, he met and married Karen Watrud Mackey.  They had two children, Anne and James.  Bob was a great father.  At his core, he was a simple guy.  Humble.  Honorable.  Stoic.  Humorous.  Loving.  And, at times, particular.  He was the holder of his own opinions and lived life on his terms.  He loved billiards and crosswords and had a real knack for drawing and photography.

Survivors include daughter Anne (Terry) Rasmusson, son Jame (Brandy) Mackson (Mackey); grandchildren Aleda (Montana) Rasmusson, Mena Mackson and Malone Mackson; brother Bill Mackey; sister Mary (Bob) Mackey Faulkner; nieces Joey (Doug) Beech, Tera (Charlie) VanHorn; nephews Steve (Joan) Mackey, Paul (Sally) Mackey, Joe (Dr. Bora) Faulkner, David (Jenn) Faulkner, Matt Faulkner.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elizabeth Mackey; wife Karen Mackey, sisters Betty Mackey, Judy Cobb and Joyce VanBeest; Brother Jack (Mary Ellen) Mackey; and sister-in-law Sandy Mackey; nieces, Lori (Jim) Marushin, Jennifer Mackey; nephews, Jake Rubbelke, Bill Cobb and Daniel VanBeest.

Bob’s life will be celebrated at a gathering on January 17, 1:00 PM in the community room at Lexington Landing, 900 Old Lexington Ave S, St. Paul MN 55116.  He will be interred privately per his request. The family requests any memorials be in the form of donations to MN Public Radio.