Robert “Bob” Zaborowski 11/02/2025

Robert “Bob” Anthony Zaborowski, age 66, of River Falls, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 2, 2025, in Melbourne, Missouri, doing what he loved most – hunting in the quiet woods he cherished.

He was born on January 8, 1959, in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, son of Arnie and Corrine (Leja) Zaborowski. Bob grew up near Otter Lake, where his lifelong love of nature first took root. The woods were his sanctuary, his church, where he felt most connected, free, and at peace.

After graduating high school, he spent ten years farming, then began a proud 35-year career as an ironworker with Bald Eagle Erectors. His stoic presence, kind heart, and steady way of moving through life allowed Bob to approach every job and every day with grit, integrity, and quiet determination. He was a simple man of few words, always observing what was going on around him. He spoke little, listened deeply, and taught by example.

Bob was always there for his kids and grandkids. He was consistent, kind, humble, and endlessly patient. His deep, calm voice carried quiet strength and reassurance. He was hardworking, intelligent, talented, responsible, and respectful. Bob was a man of honor who valued doing things the right way, not the fast or easy way. He believed in taking the time to do things well, the long-lasting way, always seeing and focusing on the end result.

He was known for being reliable and predictable in the best sense. Always at least 15 minutes early for everything, and 30 minutes early for work. Family meant everything to him. He was proud, peace-loving, and deeply family-oriented. Every time he talked about his grandchildren, he lit up; his pride in them was unmistakable and filled the room.

He was a passionate big game bow hunter who treasured his time in the woods and the thrill of the hunt. Among his proudest moments were his trips to South Africa (five of them). Each an adventure he spoke of often and with great excitement.

On February 15, 1980, he married his high school sweetheart, Cindy Shilts, in Chippewa Falls and together they built a life of love, hard work, and simple joys. Their marriage of 45 years was filled with shared adventures, laughter, and deep devotion.

Every spring Bob and Cindy could be found planting flowers together – petunias, marigolds, zinnias, and his favorites, Cleome and impatiens. He took great pride in his lawn and garden; tending to them was not work, it was therapy. Spending time with his children and grandchildren, camping, and carpentry projects were just a few of the many things he enjoyed most in life – along with his love for hunting. He lived to hunt.

Bob was a long-time member of St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in River Falls.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Tony and Emily Zaborowski; maternal grandparents, Frank and Bertha Leja; his father, Arnold; his step father Harvey Randall; his father and mother-in-law, Larry and Judy Shilts; and sister-in-law, Deb Depa. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Cindy; his children, Jeremy Zaborowski (Elizabeth) and Stephanie (Andy) Suman; grandchildren, CharLee, Skyler, Hazel, and Milo; and Cindy’s siblings Rick Shilts, Missy and Leo Kane, Brian Shilts, Sherrie and Joe Tiller, Carrie Shilts, Greg Shilts,brother-in-law, Len Depa; stepbrother, Joe and Shirley Randall.

Per Bob’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Those who wish to honor his memory are encouraged to spend time in nature, do what you love the most, don’t wait to do it, and live each moment to the fullest. To honor his passion for the outdoors and his belief in passing that love on to the next generation, please consider a contribution to a youth hunting or outdoor organization of your choice.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Tombstone Creek Outfitters in Gilman City, Missouri, for their time and effort in searching for and bringing Bob home.

Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.