Robert Charles Sauer

LCDR Robert C. Sauer, US Navy (Retired), from Burnsville, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the age of 90. After suffering serious injuries from a fall 5 weeks prior, Robert (Bob) succumbed to pneumonia. He was surrounded by his loving family – Connie Sauer (wife), Sandra Sauer, Robert Sauer Jr, and James Sauer. He leaves behind six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Bob was born in Royalton, MN, on June 10, 1934. He attended a one-room schoolhouse, and graduated from Royalton High School in 1953, where he played 6-man football. He enlisted in the US Navy in January 1953 and soon afterwards, received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy where he graduated with the Class of 1958.

Bob met his sweetheart, Connie Rauch, after high school; the couple became engaged prior to him entering the USNA. Bob married Connie on Flag Day, June 14, 1958, beginning their 66 years of marriage. Connie and Bob raised their three children in a loving home where family always came first. His family enjoyed many tours throughout the United States (Washington, Florida, Texas, and Minnesota), plus a 4-year tour in Rota, Spain. Some of the best memories were overseas where the family camped and visited Italy, Vatican, Germany, France, England, Spain, and Portugal.

During his naval career, the ‘Commander’ was a highly proficient Naval Aviator, completing multiple operational squadron tours flying the P2V, P-3 and EP-e Orion, as well as several training command squadrons.

Bob retired from the US Navy in 1978 and moved back to Burnsville, MN, where he started a career with Honeywell, and later, with Tappe Construction.

Bob’s US Navy career highly influenced his children, where all three served in the US Navy. Bob Jr and Jim both graduated from the United States Naval Academy, Class of 1983 and 1984 respectively – both went into naval aviation. Sandra was commissioned in the US Navy Medical Corps in 1983.

Bob Sauer was very proud of his wife, children, and his country. He was a patriot! Not only did Bob influence his children, but he also encouraged, mentored, and influenced countless people throughout his life. He taught us to always strive to do better and to take care of each other. We were blessed to be his children.

Fair Winds and Following Seas Dad!

Church Services will be at St. John’s Catholic Church, Savage, Minnesota at 10:00am, Friday, August 8, 2025. There will be a visitation from 9:00 to 10:00 am before the services, with a luncheon in the church atrium after interment.

Interment will be immediately after Church Services at 12:30pm, at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN.