Robert Neslund

Robert Eugene Neslund, local teacher, historian, and community activist, was born on November 2, 1940 in Mt. Vernon, WA, the son of Clifford R. and Elizabeth (Anderson) Neslund. He died on October 9, 2011 at his Faribault home at age 70. Bob attended public schools in Stanwood, WA, graduating from high school in 1959. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in English at Wheaton (IL) College in 1963 and pursued graduate studies at the University of Chicago for a year before accepting a teaching position at Shattuck, initially in English, later in Latin. His tenure at Shattuck-St. Mary's extended for 43 years. During this time, he earned a Master of Arts degree at St. John's College in Santa Fe, NM, and took occasional summer courses at the University of Washington, allowing him brief visits at his mother's home on Puget Sound.             Bob was known as an encouraging and exacting teacher, who also contributed in many other ways to campus life. He served as chapel organist and as a resident master; he chaperoned student tours to Italy in the 90s; he worked with the student arts magazine and curated the collection in the school museum for the sesquicentennial. In addition, he initiated the community service requirement for graduation and served as that program's director. Most notably, he indefatigably researched the first 150 years of Shattuck-St. Mary's and was proud of the trove of historical data he uncovered. It was published as For a Life of Learning and Service: How Shattuck-St. Mary's Came to Be.             He carried his scholarship, his interest in history, and dedication to service into his community activities, especially after he retired in 2008. He participated enthusiastically in courses of the Cannon Valley Elder Collegium, delivered Meals on Wheels, served on the board of Habitat for Humanity, and was an active member of the Travelers Club. He also wrote a column for the Daily News about the history of Faribault and had recently been named chair of the Heritage Preservation Commission.             Church involvement played a large part in Bob's life as a member of the congregation of the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour. Among his many church activities were choir, Senior Warden, diocesan historian, Friends of the First Cathedral newsletter, and board member of the Community Cathedral Café. He co-authored The First Cathedral with Benjamin Scott and was honored with the Dean's Cross.             Bob was preceded in death by his parents, brother Philip, sister Mary Neslund Baloga Hamblin, and nephew Pvt. Michael Baloga. Survivors include his sister, Karen Neslund Atwood (husband Daniel) of Janesville, WI; sister-in-law Kathy Neslund of Marysville, WA; others, all of Washington State, include nieces Cherstin, Jennifer, and Erin Neslund, and also Linnea Baloga and Leah Baloga Valade and their children.             Bob's life touched many. He put into practice his core values of intellectual curiosity, faith, friendship, respect and concern for others, appreciation for the arts and humanities, and regard for tradition but openness to innovation. Friends wishing to honor his life with a memorial gift can make a contribution to Shattuck-St. Mary's, the Cathedral, or to a charity of their choice.             A memorial service is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 14, 2011 at the Cathedral. Bob's remains will rest in the Cathedral Columbarium. Requiescat in pace.               Parker Kohl Funeral Home & Crematory of Faribault is handling funeral arrangements. There will be no visitation.