ROBERT LAAKSON

Robert Laakson, age 63, of Hayward died Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at Essentia Health St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth.

Robert was born December 10, 1948 in Hayward, the son of Harold & Bernice (Karwoski) Laakson. He grew up in Hayward and graduated from Hayward High School. Robert served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam from 1968 to1970. After the military he moved back to Hayward where he worked as a heavy equipment operator for many years until becoming disabled in 1999. Robert was united in marriage to Barbara Morris on December 2, 1972 at Hayward Wesleyan Church. His favorite pastimes were fishing, spending time with his grandchildren, and listening to the Brewers and Green Bay Packers on the radio.

He is survived by his wife Barbara; son Scott (Dawn) Laakson, Hayward; grandchildren Ashley, Elizabeth & Scott Jr.; mother Bernice Laakson, Hayward; brothers Harold (Colleen) Laakson of IL, and Leslie Laakson, Donald Laakson, Gunnard (Stephanie) Laakson, all of Hayward; sisters Carolyn (Bob) Rescino of IL and Janet (Howard) Appleby of MN; several nephews & nieces.

Robert was preceded in death by his father Harold.

The memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 19, at Hayward Wesleyan Church in Hayward. Pastor Mark O. Wilson will officiate with music provided by Linda Gerich. Military Honors will be accorded by the Hayward Veterans Council and State of Wisconsin Military Honors Team. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Hayward. Visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to the service on Monday at the church.