Bob Stenzel

Robert “Bob” Stenzel, 83, of Big Stone City, SD, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026, at St. William’s Care Center in Milbank, SD.

Memorial Services will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Mundwiler Funeral Home in Milbank, SD. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Friday. Fr. Tom Hartman will officiate.

Robert “Bob” Duane Stenzel was born on June 18, 1943, in Sibley, IA, the youngest of four children to Ira and Margaret (Krueger) Stenzel. During his younger years, the family moved frequently before eventually settling in the Revillo area. Bob graduated from high school in Revillo in the early 1960s.

Following high school, Bob held numerous jobs before being united in marriage with his wife, Pat (Karels) Stenzel, on June 20, 1964. The couple lived in Sioux Falls, SD, for a short time before making their home in Big Stone City, SD, where they remained for the rest of their lives together.

Bob went on to earn his welding degree in Canby, MN. He later taught night-school welding in Ortonville, sharing his knowledge and skills with others. His career took him to many different power plants and gas plants, where he worked as a welder through the local union. His work often required him to travel, taking him to plants throughout the region and allowing him to build a career he was proud of.

When Bob wasn’t working, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved to fish and even enjoyed making his own fishing lures. He spent time gardening and took great pride in his work around home. Bob especially enjoyed NASCAR, Minnesota Vikings football, and watching the Minnesota Twins. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting deer, pheasant, and goose. He also treasured playing cards with his dad, Ira.

Above all, Bob was a homebody who cherished his family. He especially loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, and those times together were among his greatest joys.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Stenzel of Big Stone City, SD; three children: Mary (Brian) Torgerson, Karen (Jimmer) Halvorson, and Duane (Monica) Stenzel; eight grandchildren: Jennifer (Shawn) Mohr, Andrew Mead, Kelcie Brown, Melissa (Christopher) Pater, Mitch (Dezi) Torgerson, Christopher (Lili) Halvorson, Emily (Austin) Swanson, and Thomas Halvorson; 11 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; sister, Jeanne Skeins; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and one sister.