Robert Carl Bakkum, 80, passed away peacefully on July 15th, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Bob was born on November 23, 1945, to Carl and Florence (Stumbo) Bakkum. He grew up in the Fargo-Moorhead area and graduated from Moorhead High School in 1963. He went on to earn his degree from Moorhead State University in 1969, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in accounting and healthcare administration.

Bob began his professional career as a Certified Public Accountant with Broeker Hendrickson before spending 19 years with Northern Improvement Company. He later joined Innovis Health, where he played an instrumental role in the planning and construction of the Fargo hospital campus that today serves the community as Essentia Health. He remained with Essentia Health until his retirement at the age of 70, dedicating decades of service to improving healthcare for the region.

Service to his community was one of Bob's greatest callings. He considered it a privilege and an honor to give back through leadership and volunteerism. He served as president of the Jaycees, the Moorhead Country Club, and Bison Team Makers. He also served on the boards of the Dakota Medical Foundation, Kamp Kace, the YMCA, the Red Cross, and United Way. He was a Mason and a member of the El Zagal Shriners. Bob believed that strong communities are built by people willing to give their time and talents, and he quietly lived that belief throughout his life.

Bob married Georgia Ells, and together they built a family centered on love, faith, and unwavering support. They were blessed with two children, Rob and Denise. One of the greatest joys of Bob's life was becoming a grandfather. His grandchildren—Sam, Maddy, Eliot, and Solveigh—filled his heart with pride and happiness. Nothing brought him greater joy than watching his family grow, and he was especially proud to become a great-grandfather to Henry, Franklin, and Lewis.

Bob found peace and happiness in the outdoors with family and friends. He loved reading, camping, fishing, hunting, skiing and spending time in nature. One of his favorite pastimes was watching the skies for eagles, marveling at their beauty and strength. Those quiet moments outdoors reflected the kind of man he was—patient, thoughtful, and appreciative of life's simple gifts.

To everyone who knew him, Bob was a man of integrity, kindness, and humility. He had an extraordinary ability to listen, making family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers feel valued and heard. He earned the respect and admiration of everyone he met through his honesty, compassion, and steady presence. He believed success was measured not by accomplishments alone, but by the lives we touch. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will remain in the hearts of those who loved him, in every family gathering, every quiet walk in the woods, every act of service, and every eagle soaring overhead.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Georgia; his children, Rob Bakkum (Mary) and Denise Bakkum Barney (Shawn) ; his grandchildren, Sam (Abby), Maddy (Najat), Eliot, and Solveigh; his great-grandchildren, Henry, Franklin, and Lewis; and his beloved dog Bentley always by his side.

He is also survived by his siblings, Steve (Joyce) Bakkum, Kathy (Ted) Doe, and Rodi (Steve) Johnson; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Elaine (Carl) Robinette, DeRicci (Dave) Petrillo, and Greg Ells; and many nieces, nephews and cousins whom he dearly loved and cherished.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Florence (Stumbo) Bakkum and Nephew Tyler Johnson.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, hospice staff, and caregivers who provided Bob with compassionate care throughout his illness. In lieu of flowers please consider making a contribution to a charity that Bob was involved with.

Bob lived a life of purpose, generosity, and quiet leadership. His legacy will endure for generations.

Visitation will be Friday, July 31, from 10:00-11:00 AM, followed by memorial service at 11:00 AM in Cormorant Lutheran Church, Lake Park MN.

Please join us for refreshments and a light lunch at church following the service.

“As God Calls US One By One, The Chain Will Link Again”