Robert Kirsch, age 50, died Thursday, September 9, 2010 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND after a long battle with cancer

Robert "Bob" Michael Kirsch was born on February 27, 1960, to Leo and Verena (Barten) Kirsch. Bob grew up in the Mahnomen, MN area and attended school there. While in high school, he began working on the old family farm. He moved to Waubun with his brother John and farmed with him until John's death and then started farming with Dave. Bob truly loved farming and continued helping Keith and Kenny farm and drive truck whenever he could. In 1983, Bob was united in marriage to Dawn Hausner at Beaulieu, MN. The couple made their home on a farm near Mahnomen. In 1988, they were blessed with a son, John Michael. Bob began working for Cenex in the 1980's running the sprayer in summer and delivering propane in winter. He also hauled beets in the fall for many years. Over the years Bob made many friends around the region. Bob was always willing to listen and lend a helping hand. Even while battling cancer, Bob never stopped giving and helping those close to him. He greatly enjoyed being with friends and family and cherished all of his special relationships. Bob liked to have fun and always had a witty comment. There was not a person he met that didn't like him. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spent many hours snowmobiling. He was a member of the Rod and Gun club.

Bob is survived by one son, John Michael Kirsch of Mahnomen; four brothers: Kenny (Sharon) of Mahnomen, Richard (Millie) of Waubun, Dave (Linda) of Detroit Lakes, MN, and Rodney of Mahnomen; three sisters: Mary (Richard) Simon of Brainerd, Becky Curfman of Montevideo, MN, and Carol of Fergus Falls, MN; many nieces and nephews; and several great nieces and great nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, John; and his wife, Dawn.

Funeral Services were held at 2 pm on Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen with Fr. Mario Prada officiating. Brenda Sorenson was pianist and Carol Liebl the song leader. Serving as pallbearers were Bruce "Red Dog" Crouse, Darrell Neisen, Darrell Walz, Lee Radtke, John Hausner, and Chad Geray. Visitation was held on Monday, September 13, 2010 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at the Anderson-Mattson Funeral Home.

Interment took place at St. Michael's Cemetery in Mahnomen.