Robert "Bob" Hermann

Robert "Bob" Hermann, age 83 of Litchfield, Minnesota, passed away on January 4, 2026, at his home on the farm. A visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Ostmark Lutheran Church in rural Watkins. Visitation will continue on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at First Lutheran Church in Litchfield. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am and will be livestreamed at www.facebook.com/Firstlitchfield. The clergy will be Pastor Joe Midthun. Interment will be at Ostmark Lutheran Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by Litchfield Honor Guard. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

Robert "Bob" Walter Hermann, the son of Walter and Freda (Johnson) Hermann, was born in Litchfield, Minnesota, on September 30, 1942, and grew up on a farm northeast of Litchfield. He attended District #74, a one-room school, through 8th grade and graduated from Litchfield High School in 1960. A highlight of his early years was attending John F. Kennedy's inauguration in Washington, D.C. in 1961.

Bob's life as a farmer began after graduation from high school by renting 80 acres from a neighbor. He purchased additional land and started raising polled Hereford cattle. For 34 years he sold Pioneer Seed Corn, working closely with neighboring farmers.

Bob was a lifetime member of Ostmark Lutheran Church in rural Watkins. He served on numerous committees with the church.

In 1963, Bob joined the Minnesota Air National Guard, serving for six years. The weekend of his swearing-in was the same weekend following John F. Kennedy's assassination. This made him question whether joining up was a good decision.

Bob married the love of his life, Betty Rick, in 1966. They were blessed with two children, Tami and Todd. Family meant everything to Bob, and he cherished his relationships dearly.

Bob served on the Litchfield School Board of Education for 21 years. He and Betty provided a scholarship for Litchfield students for 20 years in memory of their son, Todd. Bob's goal was always to give back to the school district for the 12 years they gave to him and he, by far, exceeded that goal. Bob was inducted into the Litchfield Hall of Fame in 2022.

Bob and Betty dedicated almost 50 years with the Forest City Stockade Committee. Bob oversaw and actively participated in the construction of all the buildings on site. Over the years, Bob and Betty gave tours to thousands of school age children and adult visitors to the area. They also went to several area schools and gave talks and demonstrations on pioneer life. Bob was a charter member of the Kingston Lion's Club. Bob was also a member of the Meeker County Park Board, serving for 20 years. He was also the chairman of the Peanut Butter and Milk Organization. Following the death of their son, Bob worked with the Compassionate Friends organization, supporting other parents who lost a child.

Bob proudly lived in the Litchfield area all of his life and selflessly gave back to the community by serving on many boards and committees to help the wonderful people who live here. In 2009, the Minneapolis Aquatennial organization awarded Bob the Honorary Commodore Ambassador for his dedication to community service. A hardworking man whose faith was strong and his integrity solid, Bob had a servant's heart for helping others. He was a friend to everyone. Bob leaves a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity and he will be missed beyond measure, along with his Bob Hermann Hug.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Betty Hermann; daughter, Tami (Mark) Mortenson; grandson, Dylan Watt (fiancé Whitney Welder); granddaughter, Sophia (Riley) Grabow; great-grandson, Brooks Grabow; and other loving relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Todd.