
Robert was born February 21, 1940 to Robert F. and Margaret (Desautel) O’Toole in Grafton, ND. He grew up and attended school, graduating from Crystal High School. He went on to study agriculture at NDSSS and NDSU. After completing his studies he began farming with his father and two brothers on the family farm in Crystal. Robert was united in marriage to Judy Cernik on July 6th, 1963 at Grafton, ND. They made their home in Crystal until 2005 when they moved to Grafton.
Robert was a man of faith, a longtime member of St. John’s Catholic Church and previously of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Crystal, where he served as treasurer for a number of years. Robert was also a volunteer firefighter for the Crystal Fire Dept. and for a time served as Fire Chief. He enjoyed camping in the summer months with his family and especially loved wintering in Texas for 24 years. Whether it was spending time with his close golfing buddies or playing cards he always had a smile on his face and much laughter was shared.
Anyone who knew Robert knew that he was the most caring father and husband a family could ask for. His family meant the world to him and he loved having everyone over to his house. Robert is survived by his four children: Dean (Tauna) O’Toole, Fargo, ND; Dan O’Toole, Thompson, ND; Carol (Shane) Jopp, West Fargo, ND; Gene (Tammie) O’Toole, Grafton, ND. He was a proud grandpa to Eric (Melanie) O’Toole, Emily O’Toole, Kadin O’Toole, Katie O’Toole, Nicole O’Toole, Ryan O’Toole and great grandpa to Blayke O’Toole. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Shirley O’Toole and several nieces and nephews.
Robert was the last surviving member of his immediate family. He is preceded in death by the love of his life Judy in 2016, his parents, siblings, James, Lawrence, Kathleen, Elizabeth, Patrick, daughter-in-law Stephanie O’Toole and granddaughter Megan O’Toole.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 11:00 am with visitation one hour before at St. John’s Catholic Church in Grafton, ND. Visitation will be Sunday, May 18th from 3-5 pm at Tollefson Funeral Home in Grafton. Inurnment will follow at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery in Crystal, ND. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to St. Patrick’s Cemetery Fund in Crystal.