Robert McMillen, 72
Robert Bob J. McMillen, 72, of Le Center, died Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at his home.
Bob was born in St. Peter on October 19, 1936, a son of Clifford and Irene (Baker) McMillen. He attended St. Mary's Parochial School in Le Center and graduated from McKinley High School in 1955. He continued his education at Mankato Business College and the University of Colorado. Later he earned his insurance license.
Bob married Loralee Lunn on April 27, 1957, at St. Mary's Catholic Church. They raised six children while Bob worked for a number of companies, including Central Telephone Company, Madson's Valu Center, Gold Bond Stamps, Carlson Company, Norwest Bank, RJ Larson Insurance and Carpet King. He served in sales and marketing executive positions in Minneapolis and St. Paul. He then ventured out on his own with ownership interests in Carpet Castle, Le Center Motors and the Le Center LaundryMat. In addition to their own children, Bob and Lora were foster parents to more than 60 other children, as well as hosts for the AFS program.
Bob was a very active member of the community, serving as mayor for many years, as well as serving on the city council. He also held memberships with the Le Center Lions Club, Community Club, Knights of Columbus, St. Mary's Choir, Hopkins Chamber of Commerce and the West Suburban Jaycees. He was also an active volunteer for the Le Center Food Shelf, Dollars for Scholars, St. Mary's Building Project and Relay for Life. In his spare time, Bob enjoyed camping, fishing, card playing, traveling, Le Center High School sports and spending time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife; children Terri McMillen, Le Center, Julie (Jim) Harmon, Le Center, Cheri (Michael) Tishman, Coral Springs, FL, Jim (Susie) McMillen, Le Center, Mark (Barb) McMillen, Le Sueur and Barb (Andy) Oak, St. Thomas; 15 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a sister Mary Doherty.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law Mike Doherty.
Funeral services were held at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Le Center on Saturday, May 23, at 10 a.m. Burial was at the Calvary Cemetery in Le Center.
Visitation was held at the Le Center Funeral Home on Friday, May 22, from 3 to 8 p.m., with a Knights of Columbus Rosary held at 8 p.m.