With deep gratitude for a lifetime of cherished memories, the family of Bob—The Man, The Myth, The Legend—announces his peaceful passage through the pearly gates of heaven on August 27, 2024. Surrounded by his beloved children, Bob was warmly welcomed at the gates by countless family and friends who had gone before him.

Robert James Tepper, born in Minneapolis on April 5, 1937, was the eldest of four sons to Muriel V. (Foster) and Russell H. Tepper. Bob lived 87 years with no regrets, filled with love for his family, friends, and everyone he encountered—because he truly spoke to everyone!

Bob was proud of achieving Eagle Scout and of being a member of Minneapolis Central High School’s class of 1956.  He had a deep love for the American political system and always encouraged others to vote, even if they supported candidates other than his own. A lifelong fan of the Minnesota State Fair, Bob attended every year—first with his parents and siblings, and later with his own family. This cherished tradition continued well into his 80s. The yellow “BOB TMTMTL” bench at the fair stands in his honor.

Affectionately known as “Mr. Sears” after a 34+ year career, Bob was a familiar face in Delano’s coffee club circuit, TAC’s 5 am walking club, and the Minneapolis Central Pioneers lunch club. His wry sense of humor and uncontrollable laughter brightened nearly every situation.  Not a fan of leftovers, Bob had a favorite restaurant in every town he visited. His ability to make friends wherever he went meant he often ran into people who remembered him from past encounters. He touched countless lives during his 87 years, but none more deeply than his family.

Bob’s greatest impact was felt by his family, who were always his top priority. One year, he worked overtime for 50 consecutive Saturdays to ensure his children had everything they needed. He was committed to teaching them the difference between wants and needs, and the importance of spending wisely. Bob was their unwavering supporter through thick and thin, always encouraging them to trust their intuition and do what was right. “WWBD”—What Would Bob Do?—became a guiding principle for the family.

A favorite among friends and neighborhood kids, Bob found immense joy in selecting the perfect birthday card. For his nieces and nephews, receiving a card from Uncle Bob was a cherished treat. He also shared a deep and enduring bond with his beloved brother Don, who was not only his sibling but his lifelong best friend. Among Bob’s greatest joys was the time spent with his granddaughter Anna, who held an irreplaceable place in his heart.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved grandmother Sophie (Plaisance) Tepper, his former spouse and lifelong friend, Bonny (Douglas) Tepper, his brothers Thomas and David, numerous family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved children, Robert, Lisa (Greg) Krause and their daughter Anna,  and Russell (Wanda Micheli);  brother, Donald (Sharlon); sisters-in-law Doreen and Rita; and other cherished family: Barb; Betty; Sylvia; Bill; Laurie; Sandy; Brenda; Kim; Carmen; Tanya; Daniel; John; Mark; LeAnn; Janna; Teryl; Cathy; Karen; Alicia; Beth; Bill; Matt; Paul; Mike; Michelle; Emily; Jessica; Alex; Jeff; Fontana; and anyone else we missed! (Yes, we inherited dad’s sense of humor!)

Please join us in celebrating our dear dad on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Light of Christ Church, 3976 County Line Road SE, Delano. Visitation at 10 a.m., funeral at 11:00 a.m. followed by an inurnment at Delano Public Cemetery, 8647 County Road 17 SE, Delano. Luncheon to follow at church fellowship hall.

The service will be livestreamed by the Light of Christ Lutheran Church ECLA Facebook page.