Springfield resident Robert A. Runck Dies at 87

Robert A. Runck, a 87-year-old resident of Springfield who dedicated half a century to the heart of his community, passed away on November 3, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Nursing Home.

For 64 years, Runck’s story was intertwined with that of his wife, Glenda. Their life together began on February 24, 1962, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Nicollet, Minnesota. They built a family of four children on their farm, a life that became the bedrock of Springfield’s agricultural community.

A Life of Service, Both on the Farm and in the Township

Runck’s commitment to his home stretched far beyond his own property lines. His service to the Springfield Farmer’s Elevator lasted 12 years, but his most profound impact came during his 26-year tenure at Harvest Land Cooperative. He didn’t just hold a seat on the board; he shaped its future, serving as president for an incredible 18 years.

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Runck also served as clerk of North Star Township for many years and was a proud member of the Springfield American Legion. His life was filled with civic duty and faith as an active member of the Springfield United Methodist Church.

It was a life balanced by hard work and cherished leisure. When the crops were in and the machinery was put away for winter, Runck and his wife would head to Harlingen, Texas for five months. There, they built a second community, with friends from all over the United States and Canada. His morning coffee group in Texas was as much a part of his routine as checking the markets back home.

The Man Behind the Public Service

Behind the titles and the responsibilities was a man who found joy in the simple things. My KLGR’s report paints a picture of a man who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling. But his greatest joy, it seems, was spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Glenda, their four children—Pam (Rick) Baumann, Shelley (Bryan) Trebesch, Bob Runck, and Kim (Ken) Rahne—a legacy that includes 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Mary Jansky, and a wide circle of family.

His story is also one of sacrifice and service to his country. From 1958 to 1965, Robert Runck served in the U.S. Army, an experience that undoubtedly shaped his character and his commitment to community. He was honorably discharged, bringing that discipline back to the farm and the township he would one day lead.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Sturm Funeral Home in Springfield. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the funeral home. It will continue on Monday morning from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM at the United Methodist Church. The funeral service itself will take place at the church on Monday, November 9, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at the Springfield City Cemetery.

For those who wish to offer condolences, an online guest book is available at the Sturm Funeral Home website. Robert A. Runck, of Springfield, died on November 3, 2026.

A local historian familiar with Springfield’s civic leaders provided a statement on Robert Runck’s life and legacy.

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