Robert James Leiviska

Robert James Leiviska,79, of Aitkin, passed away April 1, 2026, at Centra Care Hospital in St. Cloud surrounded by his loving family.  Bob was born on December 18, 1946, in Aitkin the son of Sulo and Edith (Olson) Leiviska. After completing school, he moved to California, where he met the love of his life, Barbara. They married in December of 1970 and in 1974 they returned to Aitkin where they built their life together and raised their family.  Bob was a dedicated and hardworking machinist throughout his life. After returning to Minnesota, he worked at LA Tool, where he served as plant manager. When operations consolidated into Aitkin Ironworks, he became the production manager. Eventually, he fulfilled his dream of owning his own business, Aitkin Machine and Manufacturing. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic—if he wasn’t at home, chances were he was at work.  He was a man who loved to stay busy and enjoyed life to the fullest. Bob found joy in hunting, fishing, and shooting, and he played softball and bowled for many years. He was an avid fan of the Minnesota Wild and Minnesota Twins and loved watching their games. He especially cherished time spent with his beloved dog, Lucy, whether throwing the ball or taking her along for nightly rides in his truck.  Above all, Bob loved his family. He treasured time spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends, and he never passed up a good get-together. Known for his easygoing nature, Bob would do anything for anyone. If you knew Bob, you were truly blessed.  Bob was a devout Christian and faithfully served as a Trustee at Crosby Bible Baptist Church, where his faith and commitment to his church community were evident to all.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sulo and Edith Leiviska; his brother, John; and his sisters, Shirley Redden and Jeanette Walker.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his sister, Lorraine (Eugene) Balder of Crosby; his daughter, Christi Palazuelos; his sons, Jim(Stacy) Leiviska and Travis(Alicia) Leiviska; his cherished grandchildren, Briana Palazuelos; Camryn, Michael, and Alaina Leiviska; and Layla, Willow and Ezra Leiviska and his great-granddaughter, Raevyn Saba, born to Briana Palazuelos and Jay Saba, along with many nieces and nephews.

Bob will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, April 18, at Crosby Bible Baptist Church in Crosby. A social gathering will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. A luncheon at the church will follow.  Arrangements are with Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Aitkin.  www.srtfuneral.com

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