Robert "Bob" Rucinski, age 88, of Grand Rapids, MN died Friday, October 11, 2024, at St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, MN.

Bob was born in 1936 to Michael and Helen Rucinski in Gibbs City, MI. He was raised and attended school in Iron River, MI.  Bob met his wife Virginia Yackel while working at Golas Grocery Store.  They were united in marriage on August 4, 1956. Bob served 11 years in the Michigan National Guard. Bob took a job with Hanna Mining Company at the Homer Wauseca Mine in Iron River.  This was the start of a 23-year career that included promotions to mines in Idaho, Missouri, Minnesota, and Oregon.

After the closure of the copper mine in Oregon, Bob then had a successful 10-year career with Mine Safety Appliances serving the Pacific Northwest Region of the United States. He enjoyed traveling, meeting new people, and excelled at sales.  This was a career choice Bob truly loved.

At the age of 59 he retired. Bob and Virginia moved to Montana where they were able to enjoy hunting, fishing and traveling. In 2001, they moved to Grand Rapids, MN to be closer to their two daughters and grandchildren.  Bob and Virginia enjoyed their later retirement years together in the home they built on the Mississippi River.

Bob loved to be busy and productive. Those close to him would describe him as trustworthy and dependable. He worked hard to instill in his daughters and grandchildren "the future value of a dollar".  Bob, just like his father, had many favorite quips and slogans.  Ask him, "Bob, how are you?" and you would hear, "Fine as frog hair".

Bob is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Virginia; daughters, Carol (Joseph) Campbell of Williston, ND and Janet (Thomas) Gaffney of Bovey, MN; and grandchildren, Anthony Campbell, Jeremiah (Alexis) Campbell, Kaitlynn Campbell, Sara (Brad) Davidowitz, Laura (Tyler) Melton, and Drew Gaffney.

Per Bob's wishes, no services will be held. A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Please send any condolences to Rowe Funeral Home, 510 NW 1st Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744.