Robert “Bob” Stensland, age 92, of Bricelyn, MN, died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 at Good Samaritan Society in Albert Lea, MN.  A graveside service will be held Sunday, November 8th at 1:00 PM at the Bricelyn Lutheran Cemetery with Pastor Bob Stover officiating.  Military honors will be accorded by Bricelyn American Legion Post #165.  The public is invited to attend and social distancing guidelines will be followed. Please direct memorials to the Bricelyn Lutheran Church, Bricelyn Ambulance Service, or Bricelyn Swimming Pool.

Robert James was born May 22, 1928 in Jewell, Iowa the son of Abel and Helen (Matson) Stensland.  He was united in marriage to Mary Iverson December 19, 1954 at Bricelyn Baptist Church. Bob graduated from Bricelyn High School in 1946 and entered the Army during the Korean Conflict.

Bob farmed near Bricelyn until 1994 where he and Mary raised 5 boys.  Bob was an avid supporter of his son’s sports, never missing games/meets even if it meant attending in his dirty farm clothes.  Bob really enjoyed playing “500” with the neighborhood card club, being active in his church, coffee in Bricelyn, fishing with the family, attending Twins games, listening to Minnesota sports on the radio, and was an avid reader well into his late 80’s!

Bob was well known for his sizeable gardens.  He grew many more vegetables than the family could eat, but instead shared his extras with others, and often in exchange for other goods, that always included a nice chat.

Most important to him was his family.  He was so devoted to Mary and often told the story of Mary getting on the school bus and knowing she was the one!  Bob and Mary lost their son Gary prior to his 3rd birthday but turned their grief into raising 4 hardworking young boys who learned solid values while helping out on the farm.  Those boys ultimately brought girls into the mix, and then grandchildren!  Tractor rides with Grandpa Bob were the best!

He is survived by his children: David Stensland of Baxter, MN, Daughter-in-law Cindy Markham of Fridley, Paul (Cheryl) Stensland of Lino Lakes, MN, Bruce (Danae) Stensland of Maple Grove, MN; thirteen grandchildren, and sixteen great grandchildren.  He is also survived by his brother Gerald Stensland of Red Wing, MN; sister-in-law: Lois Wood of Menomonie, WI;  as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary, sons Richard and Gary; his parents; sister Deloris Wuerflein, and brother-in-law Sam Wood.