Robert Albert Juran, Jr.

Robert Albert Juran, Jr. of Hugo, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, March 6, 2024 in his home at Encore Assisted Living and Memory Care in Mahtomedi, Minnesota. 

Rob was born in St. Paul on March 11, 1947 to Robert and Ernestine (Selden) Juran. He grew up on the family farm in Withrow (Hugo). He attended the District 63 one-room schoolhouse until 3rd grade when the new Withrow Elementary School opened. He attended Stillwater High School and graduated in 1965 and was active in FFA. Rob was a gifted mechanic first and always, whether motorcycles, cars, trucks, or buses. His first job in high school was in White Bear Lake, working for George Vadnais in his gas station. Rob also worked for his father who over time owned 2 gas stations: a Shell station on University and Victoria in St. Paul, and a Texaco station on Little Canada Road and 35E in Little Canada.

Rob worked as a mechanic for Harley Davidson for several years, ending his work life with 35 years of dedicated service to the Metropolitan Transit Commission as Service Garage Supervisor. He retired in 2009. Robert passed his love of motorcycles on to both his children. Amy can be seen flying down the roads of Withrow on her Harley wearing a Texaco hat. And Guy, while now exclusively on four wheels, shares his dad's affinity for mechanical work, tinkering, garage re-arranging, and colorful, yet dignified, use of the English language.

Rob was a devoted husband, marrying Elizabeth (Beth) Belland in 1971 in Mahtomedi.

Rob and Beth made their home in Withrow where they spent 53 years together. They raised two children, Guy (Kelly) and Amy (Allen). Rob was a loving grandfather to Guy and Kelly's children, Lucy and Henry. Robert was also a loyal friend to many, who often referred to him by his nickname, "Spot." Rob's garage was a hangout for his friends, whether for auto repairs, tire changes, or just to share a beer and tell stories.

Rob often sported a red polka dot welding cap, suspenders, and over-sized sunglasses likely bought from the Snap-On truck. Robert's beard, toothy smile, and infectious laugh made him unforgettable. You never left the Juran home without an "I love ya, be careful" from him. Rob was well known for making incredible concoctions ("blends") for his work lunches, these often containing spam, spam, and more spam. He had a wonderful sense of humor and will be missed by his many friends and family.

Rob was preceded in death by his parents Bob and Ernie Juran, and sister, Pamela Juran Bjorum. He is survived by his wife Beth, children Guy (Kelly); daughter Amy (Allen King); grandchildren Lucy and Henry Juran; brothers-in-law Wayne Bjorum and Brad Belland; brother and sister-in-law Joel and Shirley Heiligman; his nieces and nephews Kristin (Mike) Leuer, Ingrid (John Steinmetz) Bjorum, Scott Heiligman, Heather (Stuart) Prudden, Sarah (Robbie) Goldfarb; and our grand-dogs,  Squeak and Doyle; along with many other great nieces and nephews, cousins and cherished friends.