Robert "Bob" Suel

Robert “Bob” Joseph Suel, age 71, of Shakopee, MN, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, July 11, 2025, at St. Gertrude’s Health & Rehabilitation Center.

A Liturgy of the Word will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with a time of gathering from 9:30–10:45 a.m. at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 833 South Marschall Road, Shakopee. Deacon Jim Pufahl will preside. Bob will be laid to rest at Shakopee Cemetery.

Bob was born November 15, 1953, in Shakopee to Brendan and Isabelle (Huss) Suel, and remained a lifelong resident of the city. He graduated from Shakopee High School in 1972, growing up with his younger brothers Richard, Thomas, and Joseph. On May 16, 1981, Bob married Patricia Anne Bartyzal, and they shared a loving partnership through 44 years of marriage.

After high school, Bob began a fulfilling 41-year career with Southwest Newspapers as an Advertising Sales Representative, primarily serving the Chaska Herald market. He was known for his professionalism, strong relationships with clients and coworkers, and his ever-present suit and tie—which led to lighthearted jokes from Pat’s family about him being a secret agent.

On December 28, 1987, Bob and Pat welcomed their son, Michael. He was a devoted father, coaching Michael’s Little League teams, and served as president of the Shakopee Baseball Association for several years. Bob also built an elaborate model train layout featuring many of Shakopee’s landmarks and family businesses.

Bob had many interests including traveling to the North Shore and going on cruises with close family, caring for tropical aquariums, and reading about national politics. Alongside Pat, he helped create a beautiful yard including water features, koi and goldfish ponds, and lush landscaping—all built with care and creativity. Bob also had a deep love for dogs and could always be found with Shadow, the family pet, not far behind. He also had an instant connection with Mike’s dog Simba, as well as any other dog that he met.

In his later years, Bob bravely battled Alzheimer’s disease. Pat cared for him at home, and in the final months, he received compassionate support from the staff at St. Francis Regional Medical Center, St. Gertrude’s Health & Rehabilitation Center, and Alina Hospice.

Bob is survived by his wife, Patricia; son, Michael (Katy Vannett) Suel; brothers, Tom (Amy) Suel, Joe (Therese) Suel; nieces and nephews, Eric, Jenny, Jared, Richard, Timothy, Katherine, and Christine. He was preceded in death by his parents, Brendan and Izzy; brother Richard; and nephews Thomas Suel and David Suel.