Robert Hollenbeck

Robert John Hollenbeck, age 76, of Hastings, passed away on January 20th after a brave and courageous battle of Mesothelioma, a rare form of asbestos related lung cancer. Bob was born in Minneapolis and lived most of his life in the Coon Rapids, MN area. Bob and his wife Barb arrived in Hastings in 1996 when they followed an economic opportunity in which they bought a historic property on Second Street in downtown Hastings and opened the retail store 'Second Childhood' in 1996 and later became Hastings residents in 1999. Bob's love of restoring things and his passion for real estate lead him to buy two additional historic properties in downtown and a dilapidated house on 7th Street. He restored each piece of property with determination and pride.Bob was grateful for the opportunity he found in Hastings and felt it was important to give back to the community in which he prospered. He expressed the debt of gratitude by being involved in the community in order to make Hastings a better place and expand the possibility of opportunity to other individuals. He volunteered his time and talents on various City Commissions, the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Hastings Downtown Business Association.Bob is survived by wife Barbara Hollenbeck and canine companion, Cassie; Daughters: Kim Hollenbeck (Hastings), Linda Hollenbeck (Grand Rapids, MN); Roberta Johnson (Mora, Mn). Son: Daniel Hollenbeck (Coon Rapids, Mn) and stepson Andrew Chesser (Hastings). Bob had 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.A celebration of Bob's life will take place January 30th at Wise Family Funeral Home at 3:00 pm with a visitation starting at 1:30 pm prior to the service. Guests are invited for refreshments following the service. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers and will be directed towards the research for a cure of Mesothelioma. Bob will be deeply missed by his family and the community of Hastings.