Robert L. Gestie, age 81, formerly of Bricelyn and Fairmont, died Monday, June 14, 2004, at the Lakeview United Methodist Care Center in Fairmont.

Funeral services will be at 1:30 p. m. Thursday, June 17, at Bethany Lutheran Church in rural Frost. The Rev. David Taylor will officiate.

Visitation will be held at Bruss&045;Heitner Funeral Home in Bricelyn from 5 to 7 p.m. today, June 16, and one hour prior to services at the church. Interment will be in the Bricelyn Lutheran Cemetery in Seely Township, Faribault County, with military honors by the Bricelyn American Legion Post.

Robert L. Gestie was born in Seely Township on March 12, 1923, the son of Helmer and Mable (Seltun) Gestie. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church. He graduated from Bricelyn High School in 1941. During World War II, Robert served his country as a sergeant with the United States Army Air Force, 494th Bombardment Group (Kelley’s Kobras). On Feb. 15, 1948, Robert married Verneal (Neal) Adams in Faribault. In 1953, Robert and Neal moved to California where Robert began his career with the Southern Pacific Railroad, retiring in 1983 as a district claims agent. Robert was a member of the American Legion in Fairmont, Post #0036, Free and Accepted Masons of California, Bakersfield Lodge #224, and the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Bakersfield, Calif. Robert was an avid fisherman, enjoyed football, golf, a good game of cards and gatherings with his family. Robert and Neal enjoyed all the wonderful friendships they made during the 20 years of camping. They also enjoyed the many years they were able to spend their winters in Arizona.

He is survived by his wife, Verneal Gestie of Fairmont; three sisters: Judith Asmus of Blue Earth, Merrian Kosovich of Blue Earth, and Irene and husband Taylor Moore of Bakersfield, Calif.; and several nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.