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It is with heartfelt sorrow that we share the passing of Robert (Bob) Sump, who left us peacefully and unexpectedly on May 28, 2026, at the age of 81.
Born in Storm Lake on May 25, 1945, Bob’s journey was one marked by warmth, kindness and dedication to those he loved.
Bob was raised on a farm in Storm Lake and his early years instilled in him the values of hard work and humility. He graduated from Albert City-Truesdale High School in 1963, and continued his education at Buena Vista University, where he graduated with honors in 1967. Bob’s professional life began at Bemis Bag Co. as a chief cost accountant, a role that took him to various offices and gave him the opportunity to hone his skills. In the 1980s, Bob transitioned to Hedberg Aggregate, where he continued to excel until his retirement.
Along his journey, Bob met Shirley Kramer, and he became a devoted father figure to her three children, warmly embracing the role of a loving family member. His kindness and generosity extended to his grandchildren, Kylie and Ryan, whom he cherished deeply.
Bob found great joy spending time at his cabin in Cumberland, Wis., especially fishing with friends and attending the annual “Rutabaga Festival” every August with his best friend, Al Buchholtz, and Al’s wife, Darlene, where many fond memories were made by us all. Bob’s faith was a guiding light in his life, and he was devoted to his church community.
Bob will be remembered for his warm smile and gentle spirit. He greeted everyone with kindness and never spoke ill of anyone — a testament to his truly compassionate soul.
He is survived by his sisters, LaDonna Jacobson and Lorraine (Dean) Wohlhuter; sister-in-law Lorraine Sump; nieces: Lori (Theron) Drenckhahn, Renee (Scott) Grimsman, Jean Jaros and Julie (Andy) Sutherland; nephews: Michael Jacobson, Mark (Mary) Wohlhuter and Terry (Shelly) Sump; great-nieces: Greta Wohlhuter, Monica Wohlhuter, Jessica Sump, Megan Sump and Sarah Sump; great-nephews: Adam (Cassie) Grimsman, Jeremy Grimsman, Henry Sutherland and Tyler Sump; great-great-nephew Parker Grimsman. Extended family includes Kari (Ward) Nelson, Randy Kramer, Kristi (Bob) McElroy, and their children, Kylie and Ryan.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Verna Sump; brother Wayne Sump; brother-in-law Bob Jacobson; and his beloved friend Shirley Kramer.
A celebration of life was held at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Minn., on Wednesday, June 24.
