Robert M. Lyden

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He had a gift for lightening the moment with a joke, a witty comment, or gentle teasing, and he enjoyed making others laugh.

Robert “Bob” Milton Lyden, age 95, of Maplewood, passed peacefully into God’s loving hands on October 18, 2026.

Bob was born in 1931 to Frank and Martha Lyden and was raised in the Frogtown neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota. From his parents and childhood emersed in the aftermath of the great depression, he learned the joy of the simpler things in life, like hanging with friends, playing kick-the-can in an alley way, watching his dad play horseshoes on a Sunday afternoon, and ice skating at the neighborhood park. He learned how to stretch the most out of a dollar, the values of hard work, perseverance, which guided him throughout his life. His life was defined by determination, self-reliance and desire to succeed. He attended Mechanics Arts High School in St. Paul where he embraced a very practical education.

As a teen Bob was fascinated by World War II aircraft that flew overhead from and to nearby Fleming Field. At 19, Bob chose the United States Air Force when childhood friends Joe and Roger enlisted in Navy and Army. It was while stationed at Parks Air Force base in California that Staff Sergeant Lyden, first noticed Jean, a telephone switchboard operator from Hayward CA, whom he repeatedly visited to place calls home. Their chance meeting began a remarkable partnership and marriage that would span 63 years.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Bob remained devoted to his faith throughout his life. Though having modest income, Bob and Jean sent all 5 of their children to parochial grade and high school. Blessed with a strong and beautiful singing voice, he shared his love of music in service to the Church. For many years, he partnered with his wife, Jean, as she served as a music coordinator and organist for several local parishes. Together, they helped lead Sunday congregations in song, creating a ministry that reflected their faith and love of worship.

Following his military service, Bob returned to St. Paul and began a 23-year career in the grocery business at Steiner’s Market at Rice and Maryland, just blocks from where he grew up. A dependable and dedicated employee, he took great pride in his work and community. Over the years, he mentored many of the young, sometimes out of control, stock crew guys at the store who were still figuring out life, generously sharing advice, his knowledge, and experience. His years at Steiner’s reflected not only his commitment to hard work but also his willingness to help others succeed.

Jean and Bob purchased their first home for less than $17,000 dollars, but Bob determined the way ahead was to build his own, better home without debt. He built five homes during his lifetime, a testament to his ability to plan, his craftsmanship, determination, and attention to detail. Whether maintaining a home, caring for a vehicle, or tackling his next project, he was always busy and firmly believed there was always something that could be improved. Bob took pride in taking care of everything he owned.

One of Bob’s greatest passions was aviation. He earned his private pilot’s license and became a pilot; something that had eluded him while in the Air Force. Over the course of his life, owned and restored five planes, He found joy, freedom, and adventure in flying. He treasured the experiences, friendships, and unforgettable memories that aviation brought him.

Bob also enjoyed billiards and was an accomplished bowler in his younger years. His prized pool table became a gathering place for family and friends, hosting countless hours of friendly competition, laughter, and connection. Whether teaching newcomers or challenging seasoned players, Bob valued the camaraderie and friendships these activities fostered. Known for his quick wit and good sense of humor, he enjoyed sharing a joke, a playful comment, or a little friendly teasing across the table. His laughter and ability to make others smile were as much a part of the game as the competition itself.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Jean A. Lyden; his parents, Frank and Martha Lyden; and his sisters, Lorraine Elling and Muriel Murphy and grandson Sullivan Lyden.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Rob, Michael (Kelly), Chris (Lona), Pat, and Laura (Matt) McKenzie; 14 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Bob will be remembered for his quiet strength, deep faith, generosity, strong work ethic, sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to family. Bob loved to talk. He had a gift for lightening the moment with a joke, a witty comment, or gentle teasing, and he enjoyed making others laugh. Whether singing in church, flying among the clouds, working with his hands, or gathered around a billiards table with family and friends, Bob embraced life with gratitude and purpose. The example he set through a life of hard work, integrity, faith, love, and laughter will remain a lasting gift to all who knew him.

Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 AM Monday, October 26 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 2090 N. Hamline Ave., Roseville with visitation from 9-10 AM. Entombment Resurrection Cemetery.