Robert McNerney

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Charles McNerney, who went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 17, 2025, at the age of 83. He passed away doing what he loved—working in the woods on his tractor, a testament to his lifelong commitment to hard work and the beauty of God's creation.

Born in Oelwein, Iowa on August 18, 1942, Bob lived a life full of purpose, love, and service to others. As a Navy veteran, he proudly served his country, carrying the values of duty, integrity, and perseverance throughout his life. He was a longtime grocer with Fareway and Nash Finch, a Maple Township supervisor for 13 years, and for the last year and a half he worked with his daughters at Clasen & Schiessl CPAs. Bob was also an integral part of the Pequot Lakes Baptist Church community, where he worked tirelessly on projects and improvements, always striving to better his surroundings.

A man of faith, Bob's love for God and family were central to everything he did. His servant’s heart led him to help wherever he was needed, always ready to step up, and was affectionately known as "Get 'er done, Bob." Whether it was tending to his garden, building beautiful shelves, or creating a new trail on the farm, he gave his all in every project, doing it to the nth degree. Bob was a hardworking man, a builder, a creator, and above all, a lover of people.

Bob’s family was everything to him. He deeply loved his wife, children, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, and he cherished each moment spent with them. He instilled in them his love for God, a spirit of adventure, and the meaning of hard work. He took joy in the simple things: the beauty of flowers, the serenity of clouds, the ever-changing fall leaves, and mowing. He looked forward to his daily lunches with Bonnie at Dairy Queen and his evening Pepsi.

He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his commitment to his family and community, and his incredible work ethic. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, and servant's heart and the beautiful farmstead he worked on endlessly.

Bob is survived by his loving family: Beloved wife of 62 years, Bonnie McNerney; daughters, Susan (Fred) Schiessl and Debbie (Dan) Hensch – all of Pequot Lakes; grandchildren, Andrew Schiessl, Orlando, FL, Holly Schiessl (Isaac Vogt), and Charles Robert (Hadassah) Schiessl – all of Grand Forks, ND; sister, Linda McNerney, Pagosa Springs, CO; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth & Maxine McNerney; sister, Pat (Bob) Saeger; stepmother, Maxine Karr McNerney; brothers & sisters-in law, Daniel & Carolyn Stufflebeam, and Dale & Dixie Saathoff.

He is now at peace, forever in the presence of our Lord.

Bob’s visitation will be held at the Pequot Lakes Baptist Church from 9:30-11 am on Saturday, November 1, 2025, with the funeral, burial and luncheon to follow. Please feel free to dress in jeans or other comfortable clothes.

Memorials may be made to Pequot Lakes Baptist Church.