Robert “Bob” McKee, 95, of Gilbert, AZ, formerly of Luverne, ND, passed away on March 19, 2024, in Gilbert, AZ. 

Born in rural Steele County, ND, on September 1, 1928, he was a son of the late Louis and Helga (Jacobsen) McKee. Bob led a life filled with hard work and dedication. 

Becoming a husband twice in his life, first to Helen (Sherwin) in 1954 and then to Patricia “Patti” (Powell) in 1988, Robert cherished the bond of family above all else. Raised on the family farm, he instilled a hard-working ethic in all he did, working in California and Alaska before ultimately returning to Luverne to work alongside his three sons: Rick, Ron, and Ryan, on the very land that raised him. After retiring from the farm, Robert moved to Apache Junction, where he owned a donut shop with his son, Ron.

An embodiment of resilience and generosity, Bob was known for his warm smile and hearty laugh. His friendly demeanor made him a friend to everyone he met. With a sweet treat in hand, Bob could often be found socializing with friends and sharing stories about “the good old days” with anyone who would listen.

Those left to cherish Bob’s memory include two sons, Ron (Susan) McKee, of Gilbert, AZ, and Ryan (Kathy) McKee, of Pflugerville, TX; three grandsons, Travis (Brittney), Curtis (Sarah), and Sam McKee; five great- grandchildren; his chosen family, Beverly (Sather) Watkins, Kasie Watkins, and Tamie (Kupitz) Fischbach; many extended family members; and countless friends.

In addition to his parents, Louis and Helga, Bob was preceded in death by two wives, Helen and Patti; a son, Rick McKee; sisters, MaryLou and JoAnn “Mitzy”; and a brother, Marvin “Jene” McKee.

A funeral service will be at 1:00PM on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Luverne Lutheran Church, with a visitation beginning at 12:00PM. Burial will follow in Luverne Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Oliver – Nathan Funeral Chapel, Valley City.  An online guestbook is available at www.olivernathanchapel.com.