Robert Heiser Obituary

Robert J. Heiser
April 28, 1934 – June 30, 2025
Robert J. Heiser of Hot Springs, South Dakota, passed away
peacefully on June 30, 2025, in Hot Springs. He was 91 years old.
Born on April 28, 1934, in his parents' home in Fryburg, North Dakota, Robert was the son of Frank and Lena Heiser. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work, helping his father with cement work until the age of 14. He then worked on ranches south of Medora, N.D., before enlisting in the U.S. Army at age 20. He proudly served a year in Korea in the motor pool.
In 1959, Robert met the love of his life, Patricia Filkowski, at a wedding dance. Soon, they began a journey that would span more than 65 years together. They raised their family in Dickinson, N.D., where they built a life rooted in family and community.
Robert entered the propane industry. With Patricia by his side, he later founded Heiser Oil Company, which they operated with dedication and integrity until their retirement in 1989. His contributions to the field were recognized in 1998 when he was inducted into the North Dakota Propane Gas Association's Hall of Fame. In 2000, Robert and Patricia moved to Hot Springs, S.D., and enjoyed winters as snowbirds in Paso Robles, California, until 2006.
Robert was known for his incredible ability to fix and build just about anything. His workshop was a place of constant creativity, and he became the unofficial repairman for friends and neighbors. He especially loved fixing cars and took great pride in getting them running smoothly, often watching his daughters drive off in them with a tear in his eye-part pride and part concern for the cars. He was the life of the party, always ready to hit the dance floor or play tunes on his harmonica, and known for his boisterous personality, endless antics, and, of course, Bob's Red EyeTM.
Above all, Robert loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who never hesitated to lend a hand or offer support. He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Heiser, and their children: Greg (Kim) Heiser, Dee Ann (Gerard) Haag,
Debra (Wes Myles) Heiser, Del Rae Heiser, Dennette (Donald) Stroh, and Helga Heiser. He was a proud grandfather to Megan Haag, Lukas Heiser, Zachery Heiser, Samantha Stroh, Cameron Stroh, and great-grandfather to Brooks Heiser. He is also survived by his sister, Rose Heiser.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lena Heiser, and his siblings:
Marion Machnicki, Eva Howard, Amelia Stinmetz, Maggie Schaaf, Viola Schaff, and Frank Heiser Jr.
Robert will be remembered for his generous spirit, boundless curiosity, and his unwavering love for family and community. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, laughter, and love.
Mass will be at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church of Hot Springs on Saturday, July 12th, 2025, at 1:00 pm. Light refreshments and a Celebration of Life will follow after Mass, with burial at a later date to be determined.
Instead of flowers, please be kind and help others, as Bob always did.
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