Robert "Bob" Pahl

It is with a very heavy heart that we share the passing of

Robert “Bob” Pahl—a legendary cowboy, horseman, and deeply beloved family man. Bob went peacefully on New Year's Day, surrounded by family, into the arms of his Lord and Savior after a brief but courageous battle with the challenges that accompany a long and well-lived life. He would have celebrated his 86th birthday this August.

Memorial Service will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Vernon Center. Visitation will be Thursday, January 8 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Mankato Mortuary (1001 N. Riverfront Dr.).

Bob was born to Lawrence and Ethel Pahl and grew up in rural Vernon Center, where his love for the land, hard work, and storytelling began. As a country kid, he spent his days farming alongside his father, raising cane with his cousins, and sharing adventures with his siblings—experiences that shaped his lifelong work ethic and deep appreciation for rural life.

Bob married the love of his life, Charlotte “Char” Habeck, and together they made their home on what many would argue is one of the most beautiful farms in Blue Earth County. There, they raised their two children, Tracy and Rob, building a life rooted in family, faith, and the land.

Throughout his life, Bob wore many hats—farmer, entrepreneur, trucker, and employee of IFS. He was the heart behind Pahl’s Western World, Western BBQ Company, and Call Pahl will Haul trucking. He was also a proud member of the South Central Saddle Club. But of all the hats Bob wore, his favorite was always his cowboy hat.

Bob’s true passion was raising, training, and showing Quarter Horses. Known affectionately as “Belt Buckle Bob,” he achieved remarkable success in the show ring, winning the Championship Show three years in a row with his prized horse, Studly. A fourth championship was within reach, but officials ruled it unfair for him to win again—informing Bob in advance that he would have to take second place while awarding the blue ribbon to another competitor. The story became classic Bob: a testament to his skill, reputation, and good-natured humor.

Bob lived a colorful, adventurous life filled with hard work, laughter, long hauls, and unforgettable stories. When he shared those stories, his face would light up, revealing the young cowboy still very much alive within him.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Char; daughter Tracy (Derek) Zwickey and their sons, Evan and Ethan; son Rob; Rob’s significant other, Leslie; and Rob’s children, Riley, Brianna, Liam, and Axel. He is reunited in heaven with his parents, siblings, and friends who went before him—no doubt already swapping stories of the good old days.

Those who knew Bob take comfort in believing he is now free—free to ride, free to train horses, and free to haul whatever needs moving from point A to point B for Jesus himself.

Rest in peace, Bob Pahl. Your legacy, stories, and cowboy spirit will live on for generations.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by

Mankato Area Funeral Homes.

Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product. Please note, if the live stream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.