Bob Heimkes

Robert (Bob) Heimkes, of Prior Lake, passed away surrounded by his loving family on June 4, 2026. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He will be deeply missed.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM with a gathering time beginning at 9:30 AM at St. Michael Catholic Church (16400 Duluth Avenue SE) in Prior Lake. Father Tom Walker will preside, and Bob’s three children will act as urn bearers.

On March 29, 1951, Robert Earl Heimkes was the first of eight children born to Earl & Rosemary (Luskey) Heimkes. Bob grew up in Jordan, MN. He developed a very strong work ethic at a young age. He was given many responsibilities being the oldest child in his large family.

In high school Bob was very active in extracurriculars. He was captain of the football team and made the varsity football team in the 8th grade. Bob was also the wrestling and debate team while he served as Class President. Whatever challenge he faced, Bob approached it with determination, leadership, and a commitment to being the best.

After graduating from Jordan High School, Bob attended Normandale Community College before earning his engineering degree from the University of Minnesota. He built a successful career with Hines, beginning as an engineer and continued to excel leading to his role as Vice President of Construction. Over the course of 40 years, Bob earned the respect of colleagues through his dedication, expertise, and leadership.

On June 23, 1973, Bob married the love of his life, Nancy Klein, at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Shakopee. Together they built a life centered on family, raising three children: Angela, Tony, and Melissa.

Although his career often required travel, Bob always made time for family adventures. From road trips across the country to summers spent at a cabin near Brainerd, he created countless memories with those he loved most. He also enjoyed traveling the world with Nancy, visiting destinations including Paris, Italy, Austria, Germany and many more.

Bob was especially proud of his eight grandchildren. He adored being a grandfather and had a special gift for comforting babies, often succeeding when no one else could. His gentle presence, patience, and love made him a favorite among his grandchildren.

In his free time, Bob enjoyed collecting model trains, fishing, boating, and spending time with family and friends. He was known for being responsible, strong-willed, protective, caring, and capable of fixing or figuring out almost anything. Family members often turned to him for guidance, knowing he would always be there to help.

Bob’s legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the many lives he touched through his kindness, leadership, and unwavering dedication. He will be remembered with love, gratitude, and countless cherished memories.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; children, Angela (Greg) Smelser, Tony (Kelly) Heimkes, Melissa (Adrian Cerenio) Heimkes; grandkids, Jacob, Nick, Hannah, Stella, Zoe, Weston, Esme, Roman; siblings, Anne (Scott Hansen) Tuttle, Patti Hardage, Bill (Anne) Heimkes, Colleen (Steve Brotzler) Heimkes, Kathy (Tom) Mayerhofer, Joan (Mike Abrams) O'Brien; other loving relatives and friends. Bob was greeted in Heaven by his parents, Earl & Rosemary Heimkes; brother, Tom Heimkes.