Robert “Bob” George Girardi, age 84, of River Falls, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025.
Bob was born on April 24, 1941, in St. Paul, Minn., to George and Florence (Morgantini) Girardi. He graduated from Harding High School in St. Paul with the Class of 1959 and went on to serve his country with pride and honor in the United States Air Force. After his service, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Foothill College in California. Bob enjoyed a rewarding 32-year career with 3M in their International Export Division.
On Sept. 27, 1975, Bob married the love of his life, Patricia Gavin, at St. Mary’s Big River Catholic Church in rural River Falls. Together, they shared a deep love for home, family, and the simple joys of life.
Bob was a true outdoorsman—he found joy in fishing, hunting, camping, skeet and trap shooting. He cherished his weekly coffee gatherings with friends in River Falls and had a keen interest in gunsmithing. A passionate collector, Bob enjoyed antiquing and exploring hidden treasures, and he especially loved cooking and spending time in the kitchen with Pat. One of his most memorable adventures was salmon fishing on Lake Michigan.
Above all, Bob was kind, genuine, and loyal—a good man with a generous heart and a warm smile. He will be remembered fondly by many.
He is survived by his nieces and nephews: Michelle (Gary) Standaert, Kim (Randy) Maier, Kelly (Dan) Horvath, John (Amanda) Huppert, Bill Hildebrandt, and Joe Hildebrandt; great-nieces and nephews: Jason (Grace), Keydan, Matt, Abbi, Danell, Justin, Logan, Keldan, Amber, and Clayton; as well as many other relatives and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years Pat; his parents; brother, Jerry Girardi; sisters-in-law, Susan and Carol; and brother-in-law, Gordon Gavin.
A memorial service was held Friday, July 18, 2025, at O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 225 S. Third St., River Falls, WI. Bob was laid to rest beside Pat at St. Mary’s Big River Catholic Cemetery.
Services are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of River Falls. For more information, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-425-5644.
