Robert "Bob" Allen Horak, age 82, of Brainerd, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family at Bethany Good Samaritan.

Bob was born on February 16, 1943, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and moved to Brainerd as a child—a place he would proudly call home for the rest of his life. He graduated from Brainerd High School in 1961 and soon after enlisted in the United States Air Force. During the Vietnam War, Bob served in Germany loading planes, faithfully doing his part with quiet dedication and pride in service to his country.

Following his military service, Bob began a long and steady career at Potlatch, where he worked for an impressive 36 years before retiring. Retirement suited him well, especially when it meant more time for the things he loved most: fishing, hunting, camping, and road trips that usually included a good laugh, a great story, and maybe a fish that somehow got bigger each time it was told.

Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Marcia; his children, Lynn (Al) Fitch, Allen (Deanna) Horak, and Brian Horak; his 13 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Mary Kollodge, Kathy Welch, Tammy Benjamin, and Jim Horak. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Dorothy Horak, and his brother, David.

Bob's family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Bethany in Brainerd and the Moments Hospice Team for the exceptional care, kindness, and comfort they provided.

Burial will take place on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Vaale Cemetery, located at 16609 County Road 24 in Brainerd. A Celebration of Life will follow at 12:00 noon at the Brainerd American Legion, where family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and remember Bob the way he would have liked—together.