
Robert “Bob” M. Vogelsang, age 87, of Waldorf, MN died Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at the Mapleton Community Home in Mapleton, MN. A funeral service will be on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at the Waldorf Community Center in Waldorf, MN at 11:00am. The visitation will be Monday, September 22, 2025 from 4:00-7:00pm at the Waldorf Community Center and will resume the next day at 9:30am until the service starts at 11:00am. Pastor Ava Morris will be officiating, and burial will be in Dunbar Memorial Cemetery.
Robert was born May 29,1938 to Melvin and Bertha (Sorenson) Vogelsang on the family farm in Vivian Township near Waldorf, Minnesota. He grew up with a strong connection to the land and a deep appreciation for hard work and family.
He attended Country School # 47 up to the 7th grade and graduated from Waldorf High School in 1956. A natural athlete, Bob played football, basketball, and baseball—though he would proudly tell you basketball was his best sport. After attending the University of Minnesota Agriculture school in St. Paul, MN. Bob served in the Army National Guard. He began his farming career alongside his dad, Melvin and they farmed together for many years.
On December 29, 1959, he married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Kipp, at the First Lutheran Church in Waldorf. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, and farming. Bob was a dedicated dairy farmer, working side by side with Shirley and their four children. The farm was not only his livelihood but also his passion—he loved farming, his cows, tractors, and being close to nature. His love of the land extended beyond Minnesota, and he and Shirley enjoyed visiting national parks and historic sites across the country.
A man of deep faith, Bob was baptized and confirmed at Dunbar EUB Church, rural Wells. His family later joined Zoar United Church of Christ, where he remained an active member and church leader throughout his life. He lived by the belief that one day he would return to his heavenly Father, a belief that gave him strength, purpose, and peace.
Bob was also an engaged community member who gave generously of his time and talents. He served as Mayor of Waldorf for many years and was a member of the County Zoning Board and various dairy and agricultural associations. His commitment to service left a lasting impact on the town and county he loved.
When not tending to the farm, Bob was always on the move. He enjoyed fishing, volleyball, bowling, and golf. He was happiest surrounded by friends, sharing stories, laughter, and—if possible—a really cold beer. Make it a Hamm’s, please!
Bob will be remembered for his strong work ethic, sharp wit, kind heart, and enduring love for his family, faith, and community. His legacy will live on in the fields he tended, the lives he touched, and the stories that will be told with a smile and perhaps a cold Hamm’s in hand.
He is preceded in death by his son Brian (2023); his parents; and brother in- law Robert Kelly.
Bob is survived by his wife Shirley of Mapleton, MN; children: Mark (Sue) Vogelsang of Fairmont, MN, Jeff (Tricia) Vogelsang of Bloomington, MN and Lynette Vogelsang of Wells, MN; grandchildren: Kayla (Nick) Lewis of Mankato, MN, Sandy (Bryan) Delahunty of Wynnewood, PA, Brant (Tiffany) Vogelsang of Battle Ground, WA, Seth (Ali) Vogelsang of Roseville, MN, Marcus (Michelle) DiBrito of Hoboken, NJ, Jordan (Samantha) Vogelsang of Mankato, MN, Jenna (Jared) Hazel of Ridgefield, WA, Angelica (Philip) Brown of St.Paul, MN, Andrew (Gaby) Vogelsang of Richfield, MN and Ben Vogelsang of Bloomington, MN; 9 great-grandchildren; siblings: James Vogelsang of Bow, WA, Lois Kelly of Brooklyn Park, MN, Kay (Pete) Harmon of Hawley, MN, and Bonita (Russell) Schultz of Rochester, MN; and many nieces and nephews and their families.
Sympathy & Prayers for Shirley & your whole family.
Sympathy to all. I first met Bob when I worked at the veterinary clinic in Wells. He always had a smile on his face and a warm greeting when he came in the door!
Lynette, Our deepest condolences for the loss of your dad. May GOD continually Bless & Keep you. May HE grant you Comfort & Peace in this your time of sorrow. We will keep you & your family in our prayers.
Lovingly, Vicki & John Winters
Sorry to hear of Bob’s passing and my sympathy to the family. He was a devoted member of Zoar’s Church, and he had a great sense of humor.
Bob and I were in the National Guard in the early 60s we were cookesHe was my first cook long time ago, but still good memories. never forget. rest in peace, buddy.
Our deepest sympathy Shirley and family
Sending my sympathies to you Lynette and your family.
Sending Thoughts & Prayers for the Family!! Bob was a well liked guy!!
Best people I’ve had the privilege of working and knowing. I was just a kid with great respect for all my family.
Much love Vogelsang family. Our hearts and thoughts are with you all.
May all your wonderful memories bring you joy, comfort and peace.
Much love Vogelsang family. Our hearts and thoughts are with you all.
May all your wonderful memories bring you joy, comfort and peace.
My sympathies!
I am sorry to hear of Bob’s death.I have very fond memories of him at Zoars church. Blessings to you all.
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Many great memories out at farm…. And one not so good, getting stuck in a manure pile over my boots! Hope you all have the time to sit down and share the wonderful life he had with family and friends in the next few days.
He will be missed by many
Was saddened to read that Bob had passed away. Sympathies to Shirley and families. Sending prayers and love
My sympathy to Shirley and the entire Vogelsang family. I enjoyed my visits with Bob and Shirley at the Mapleton Community home. May you find joy and peace in all of the fond memories you have.
I have so many memories of coming to the farm as a child. Uncle Bob was always so kind and patient with us. He was so dedicated to his work, but he always made time to do things like drive us around town, show us the water tower, let us drive a tractor, and see animals. I feel so blessed that my wife had the opportunity to get to know him and Shirley. I’ll always remember the way he took care of Grandma Bertha for years that she lived alone.
My love and condolences to the Vogelsang family. Uncle Bob will be dearly missed.
so glad that i have gotten to know you, lynette. wishing you and your family peace, strength and lots of good memories of family and friends at this time. ruth
So very sorry to learn of Bob’s passing. We remember Bob as a wonderful guy, always friendly, smiling and fun to talk with. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Hugs for you and your family Shirley. Dale and Dawn Halgren
Deepest sympathies to the entire Vogelsang family. Fond memories of Bob when Lyn had sleepovers and we would go out to the barn. Also seeing him at sporting events and get togethers after games.
Sorry for your loss.