Robert "Bob" Dale Ishaug

Robert Dale Ishaug, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, godfather and friend, was born on October 21, 1935, to Melvin and Nora (Stephenson) Ishaug in Barnesville, Minnesota. Growing up in the pastoral embrace of rural Barnesville, Bob attended country school district #48 through the 8th grade before finishing his education at Pelican Rapids High School, where he graduated in 1953.

Bob joined the U.S. Army in 1955, contributing to his country during the Korean War as part of the weaponry and artillery division. His commitment to both his nation and his community shaped the foundation of his life.

Upon returning home, Bob embraced the calling of farm life, working alongside his family while also carving out a successful career in construction. On October 24, 1959, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Kieselbach, in a heartfelt ceremony at Assumption Catholic Church in Barnesville. Together, they built a life steeped in love on the family farm. Bob dedicated himself to farming while also establishing a formidable presence in the concrete construction industry. He began as a foreman at Meineke Johnson Construction and later became a partner at ABF Concrete, Inc in 1975. His hard work can be seen in the many significant projects he contributed to, including the West Acres Shopping Mall, Fargo National Bank, Fergus Falls and Moorhead High Schools, and the Veterans Memory Care Building in Fergus Falls. After a fulfilling career, he retired at the age of 65 in 2000.

Bob’s greatest joy came from his family. His love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was immeasurable. Family gatherings were filled with laughter as they enjoyed games of hearts, merry widow, and poker together. An enthusiastic musician, Bob played the harmonica and cherished weekend nights spent dancing, always making sure to remind his beloved wife, Betty, to “save the last dance for me.” He found additional thrill in weekend trips to the casino to find a lucky slot machine. He also would frequent the local VFW or Legion for a beverage and plays some pull tab tickets. Bob was always ready for a game of poker or dice with family and friends. Bob also had a special bond with his pets and was known for his warm storytelling that would captivate those around him.

In February 2021, Bob moved to the Minnesota Veterans Home in Fergus Falls, where he continued to be surrounded by care and camaraderie until his passing. His warmth, humor, and spirit will be profoundly missed but cherished in memory. He enjoyed dancing with the staff even in the confinement of his wheel chair.

Bob Ishaug leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and steadfast dedication that has deeply touched all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bob is survived by his wife Betty, of 65 years, of Barnesville, MN; six children: Bobby (Alex) Ishaug of Barnesville, Bill (Ann) Ishaug of Barnesville, Tom (Candace) Ishaug of Fargo, ND, Kathy (Bob) Smith of Redmond, OR, LeAnn Ishaug of Fergus Falls, Colleen (Rick) Kuhn of Mandan, ND; eight grandchildren, Tori (Jason Sanchez) Ishaug, Blake Ishaug, Sarah (Nick) Hellem, Grant (Dylan Putnam) Ishaug, Ethan (Taylor) Ishaug, Cody (Chante’ Gillis) Stangeland, Samantha (Robert) McLeod, Elizabeth (fiancé David Miller) Stangeland; six great grandchildren: Jovie Ishaug, Arlan McLeod, Curtis McLeod, Freyja McLeod, Asher Allery, Theo Allery, one brother Ordean (Maureen) Ishaug of LaGrange, IL; sisters in law: Joan Ishaug of Fridley, MN, Marion Maxwell of Kansas, Kay Kieselbach of Dilworth, MN, and Dorothy Kieselbach of Park Rapids, MN; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Melvin and Nora Ishaug, two granddaughters Allyson Ishaug and Morgan Stangeland; siblings: Shirley (Bob) Irey, Harley (Dorothy) Ishaug, Virgil Ishaug, Doug (Jerry) Ishaug, Percy Ishaug; in laws: Raymond Kieselbach, Agnes (Cliff) Cook, Marie (Merle) Baumgartner, Bernard Kieselbach, and Benedict Kieselbach.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM, Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at Assumption Catholic Church in Barnesville, MN with Father Todd Arends presiding. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Barnesville. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the Mass.

Robert “Bob” Ishaug, died at the Veterans Home in Fergus Falls on Thursday, April 3, 2025.