Robert Routh

Robert James “Bob” Routh, 97, of Duluth, passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2018, at St. Ann’s Residence.  He was born at home in Dedham, Wisconsin, on January 27, 1920, to Frank and Dysea Skelton Routh.  There were 7 children; Bob was the youngest.  He had 4 brothers:  William, Harold, Burton and James (died in infancy); 2 sisters:  Helen and Mabel.  Bob graduated from Superior Central High School in 1938.  He was a WWII Navy Veteran; served in a PT Squadron.  On February 11, 1950, he and Mabel Knutsen were married in Duluth.  After a 38-year career, Bob retired from the Burlington Northern Railroad (formerly known as the Northern Pacific) as a Car Shop Foreman in 1980.  He was a member of the Elks Club, Eagles Club, and was an active resident at St. Ann’s (served on the Resident Council, Food Committee, and was an official Greeter to new residents).  Bob was an avid player of cards and cribbage.  He participated in many social hall activities offered at St. Ann’s; at the top of his list was attending performances by the Windjammers Orchestra.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; wife Mabel Knutsen Routh; daughter-in-law Tanya Routh; son-in-law James Skurla; all of his siblings; many cousins; several nieces and nephews.

Bob is survived by his children Robert J. Routh II and Rebecca J. Skurla; grandchildren Jolene (Derek Weaver) Westphal, Jennifer Routh, and Emily (Sydne) Mwalye; great-grandsons Anthony Weaver and Likezo Mwalye; cousin Bruce (Anna Mae) Routh; sister-in-law Nancy Knutsen St. Marie; many nieces and nephews; and very special friends Richard & Anita Miller and Matthew & Katie Marturano.

There are not enough words to express how much Bob was loved and how much he will be missed by his family and his friends.  A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.  Memorials are preferred to St. Ann’s Residence/Special Account for Resident Activities.  Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home.  600 E. 2nd Street, Duluth, MN 55805.  218-727-3555.