Robert K. Carufel

Robert K. Carufel, 80, of Hastings, MN, passed away Monday, September 9, 2013. He was born January 31, 1933 to Leo and Mildred Carufel in Somerset, Wisconsin.As a young boy, he and his family moved to St. Paul, Minnesota. Bob graduated from Johnson High School in 1950 and shortly afterward enlisted in the Air Force. He was stationed in Manchester England, where he specialized as an airplane mechanic. Bob later returned to his roots in St. Paul; it was there in 1962 that he met and married Alvera (Hoppe) Gilbertson. Seeking a small town environment to raise their growing family, Bob and Al moved to Hastings, MN. He was employed by North Star Steel (Cargill) as a millwright for 26 years.Bob always maintained a dry sense of humor, loved people, and took great pride in each of his grandkids and great grandkids, of whom he was very proud. Robert was a devoted family man, taking time to teach each of his kids the fine art of fishing. He also enjoyed watching sports, in particular being a loyal fan of the Minnesota Vikings. In 1994 the Carufels headed west to Mesa, Arizona, where for fifteen years they enjoyed the snowbird lifestyle. Bob was married to his bride for fifty one years, and during that time they were blessed with six children, eleven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife, Alvera, his children, Debra (James) Knutson, Callaway, MN, Geraldine(Thomas) Smith, Hastings, MN, David (Janet) Gilbertson,Palisade,MN, Jill (Erin) Murphy, Hastings, MN, Steven (Darla) Gilbertson, Browerville, MN, and Keith (Kelly) Carufel, Farmington, MN, his brother Norman, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. The Memorial Service, officiated by Rev. Jonathan Zimpelmann will be held 10 AM Monday, September 16, 2013 at St.John's Ev. Lutheran Church, 202 West Eighth St., Hastings, MN. A gathering will be held one hour prior to the service at church. Inurnment will follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.