Obituary: Robert Henry Botz

Robert Henry Botz, 89, of Cloquet passed from this world peacefully Nov. 27, 2021, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives with kindest and loving care.

Robert grew up in St. Joseph, where he attended the St. Joseph parochial school. After high school, he earned a degree in drafting and design from Lake Superior Technical College in Duluth. He had an accomplished career at St. John’s Printing, Pittsburgh Iron Ore Shipping, Superwood and the Minnesota state highway department as a bridge inspector and design draftsman. Robert kept active volunteering for various organizations. A member of St. Clement’s Church, he taught catechism; was a dedicated mentor in tutoring special needs students; and delivered Meals on Wheels and was involved with home health care for the elderly. Robert inconspicuously received honors and accolades with his authentic humble spirit. He had various interests and talents. In his earlier years, he embraced life as a Golden Gloves league lightweight boxer. He loved most sports, including football and baseball, and mastered playing golf and bowling. Especially notable was his passion for writing short stories, which continued throughout his life. Robert showed his devotion for writing and education by teaching others his lifetime skills. He touched many lives with his kindness, wisdom and loving soul. He was the beacon of compassion and hope.

Robert was our honored husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend who will be greatly missed and remembered for his patience, humbleness, kindness and unconditional love.

He was preceded in death by his wife Myrnaloy in June 2021, son Robert Hooey, his parents Julian and Agnes Botz, and brother Harvey Botz. Robert is survived by his children Myrna Lee (Jim) Rahja, Dorothy (Curt) DeCoux, Vincent Hooey, Calvin Botz, Joseph Botz, Anna Botz, (Rick Kassa) and Jennifer Botz; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and his sister Donna Gottlieb.

A celebration of Robert’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 21 in Good Hope Church, 55 Armory Road, Cloquet. A luncheon will follow. To sign the guestbook and leave an online tribute see, http://www.atkinsnorthlandfuneralhome.com.