Robert W. Rassel

Robert (Bob) Wayne Rassel of St. Paul, MN, 77, passed away on August 9, 2024. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Roseman and Frances; parents-in-law Guy and Leonette Rice, brother Ron Rassel, brother-in-law Mark Rice, sisters-in-law Debbie Rice, Gay Martin, and Joann Rassel. 

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 57 years: Karyn, and his five children: Shelly Everett (Keith), Jenny Hughes, Rick (Yen Li), Robb (Tanya), Tony. 

He was a proud grandpa to his twelve grandchildren: Olivia, Robby, Brody, Jackson, Gabby, Aliyah, Easton, Jordan, Damian, Maddie, Ellie, and Lucian. 

Bob was also survived by his siblings: Judy Rivett (Jerry), Gary (Judy), Dennis, Jeff (Magdalena), Peggy Wallerich (Randy); siblings-in-law: Robin L. Rice, Mary Rice, Kay Rassel, David Rice (Terese), Kim Rice (Gail) and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Bob was born on October 19, 1946 in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He was raised in the nearby suburb of Inver Grove Heights where he graduated from Simley Senior High School and later served with the Minnesota National Guard. He met his wife, Karyn Rice in 1964. They were married in 1967 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church. Bob and Karyn had five children which they raised at their home in the Como Park neighborhood of St. Paul where they remained residents. 

Like many of the Rassels, Bob was very athletic. He played hockey while in high school and later participated in various athletic leagues through 3M, including a number of years in softball. Bob ran multiple marathons alongside his beloved friend and brother-in-law Mark. He was largely supportive of the local youth hockey programs at North Dale Recreation Center and in the Como Area Hockey. His hands-on involvement ranged from coaching to flooding outdoor park rinks in the middle of the night, and anything in between. 

Bob spent a dedicated 40+ years in his career at 3M. Upon his retirement, he bought a Harley Davidson Fat-Boy motorcycle. With Karyn in tow, the two enjoyed many adventures on the bike, meeting new friends and exploring new places. He spent many of his retirement years with his family. He enjoyed babysitting his grandchildren, helping his children with their various home improvement projects, and traveling with Karyn. The couple enjoyed numerous road trips across North America, as well as traveling to Europe and Asia. 

Bob was a very supportive dad and grandpa. As a father, he always made the time to play catch with his kids in the front yard and was frequently seen on summertime jogs around Lake Como with his boys Rollerblading by his side. He was always cheering for his childrens’ and grandchildrens’ success in whatever they did in life. He attended their sporting games, school events, and any achievement celebrations throughout the years. 

Bob was one of the nicest and most caring people you were lucky to come into contact with. He was always quick to start up a conversation and make new friends wherever he went. He had a playful sense of humor which made people feel at ease around him. He enjoyed telling jokes and being silly, especially with his grandkids. Family and friends of all ages found refuge at the Rassel home where Bob was always welcoming and there to talk, lend a helping hand or words, and willing to spend time hanging out before heading out on shenanigan filled adventures. 

Bob was a kind hearted family man and friend to all, a real “good guy”. He was loved by all who had the gift of being in his presence and life and he will be greatly missed. 

A visitation to celebrate Bob's life will be held from 4-7 PM Friday, August 23 at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home - Roseville, 2130 N. Dale St. at County Rd B.