Robert Ferris

Robert A. "Bob" Ferris, age 72, Motley, died Wednesday, December 14th at his home, surrounded by his loving family. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM, Monday, December 19th at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Motley, with Fr. Joe Korff presiding, visitation will be for one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery, Little Falls in the spring.

Bob was born on January 11, 1944 in Staples, MN, son of George and Bernice (Wrede) Ferris, where he grew up and was educated. He was united in marriage with Jacquelyn "Jackie" Zak on November 1, 1963 in Sisseton, South Dakota. They made their home in Hopkins and in 1966; Bob began working with the City of Bloomington Police Department. Over his 33 years with the department, he worked undercover, as head of the Vice Squad and a variety of other positions, before retiring as a sergeant in 1999. He and Jackie moved to Motley to enjoy their retirement. Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling and horses. He and Jackie also did taxidermy and enjoyed going to the casino together.

Bob was a member of the Minnesota Police Association, Ducks Unlimited and the NRA. He received the Medal of Valor while serving as a police officer.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years: Jackie; seven children: Jeff (Lori) Ferris of Bemidji, Jay (Cheryl) Ferris of Chicago, Jaurone (Ben) Richards of Cushing, Jennifer (Brett) Sibert of Hewitt, Jill (Nate) Lindstrom of Albertville, Jared (Courtney) Ferris of Pillager and Jonathon (Krystal) Ferris of Verndale; nineteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren; three siblings: Tom Ferris of Bemidji, Genette (Barry) Dies of Apple Valley, and Gayle Ferris of St. Paul. He was preceded in death by his parents: George and Bernice Ferris; sisters: Genece and Georgene; and a nephew: Troy Labathe. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel of Staples.