Robert Leo Widerski

Age 82, of Stillwater, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was preceded in death by his children, Christine and David; his parents, Edward and Irene (Zietlow) Widerski; his siblings, Leroy Widerski, Marilyn Carbone, Doreen Priem, Casey Rhode; and his brothers-in-law, Jim Priem, Louie Carbone, Marv LeTendre, and Bruce Ruppert and nephew Adam Ruppert.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Jan; his son, Bob; his daughter, Laura (Matt) Dean; his sisters, Judy LeTendre and Dianne Ruppert; brother-in-law LaVerne Rhode: his grandchildren, Marta (Ben) Lee, Jack Dean, and Jane Dean; many nieces and nephews; other relatives; and a host of friends.

Bob entered the plumbing apprenticeship program immediately after graduation from Alexander Ramsey High School. He grew up without indoor plumbing, but soon after graduating that changed. It was the first of many professional goals, all aimed at helping others.

Bob was a proud member of Plumbers Local 34 for 43 years, where he served in several capacities, from a first-year apprentice, to Training Director of the Plumbers Apprenticeship and Journeyman Training Program. Bob also served for sixteen years on the State Council on Vocational Technical Education, including a term as President.

Bob had a deep love for the trades and was fiercely dedicated to training that protected safety and improved the lives of the members and their families. He especially enjoyed guiding and shepherding young plumbers, using the rigor of the program to teach them life lessons about family, work, and giving back. If you are a plumber in Minnesota, Bob either taught you or you were taught in a program directly impacted by his tireless years of service and leadership.

As a young man, Bob loved playing hockey and softball where he enjoyed playing pranks on unsuspecting players. He loved golf, camping, fishing, poker, joking, woodworking, parties and his family and lifelong friendships. Bob liked nothing better than helping friends out with household repairs and construction projects. He was the first person present with his handy toolbox, ready to take on any job.

Bob was a dedicated husband to Jan for 62 years. In the early years, as time and money allowed, Bob built their dream home on Wagner Street in Roseville. During that time, his daughter Christine—and later, his son David—began experiencing the early symptoms of a rare and insidious illness that would eventually take their independence and their lives. Through it all, Bob remained devoted to the individual needs of all four kids. Despite these challenges he managed to take a cross country camping trip with his family every year.

In retirement, Bob built another house in Stillwater, where he continued to volunteer to fix things and help people. Bob and Jan enjoyed the country life and joined Eagle Brook Church. A few years later, they welcomed three grandchildren and delighted in watching them grow. He and Jan spent the winters in Delray Beach, FL, where he was again the person to call for help.

Bob was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2023. After successful treatment of the cancer, he managed ongoing chronic problems until a recent fall landed him in the hospital. Through the help of Lakeview Hospice, Bob was able to live out his last days at home, where he peacefully passed away.

Bob died with the unwavering faith that he would be reunited with his Lord and family in Heaven.

Service Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 12:00 P.M. at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 2800 Curve Crest Boulevard, Stillwater with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. Private interment Elmhurst Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred to Lakeview Hospice or Union Gospel Mission.