Robert Charley “Basswood Bob” Oliva

Robert Charley “Basswood Bob” Oliva, age 62, tragically lost his life in an automobile accident near his home in Ely, Minn., on Aug. 24, 2023. 

He was born on Sept. 27, 1960, in Plainville to Ruth Lee (Price) and Charley Robert Oliva.

Raised in Russell, Bob was no stranger to adventures with his siblings. From a young age, you could find him making any excuse to visit Lake Wilson to fish or water ski. He continued his passion for the outdoors as a member of the local Boy Scout troop, where he made memories each year, becoming an Eagle Scout in 1979.

Bob graduated from Russell High School in 1979 and Pittsburgh State University in 1983. He gained the skills and knowledge of an experienced carpenter and was known for his attention to detail and love for the craft. 

Bob was a cherished member of the Ely community. His passion for the outdoors led him to create lasting memories for others through guided fishing tours, which started in the 1980s when Charles L Sommers Canoe Base and dogsledding tours on the Boundary Waters employed him. He was also a handyman and carpenter. 

Bob will be remembered for his warm-hearted nature, sense of adventure, sly sense of humor, and commitment to sharing the beauty of the wilderness with others. He leaves a legacy of joy, exploration, and a deep connection to the natural world, spending his final days with several siblings doing what he loved.

Preceding him in his death are his parents and adoptive father, Boyd Knackstedt.

Survivors include his adoptive mother June Knackstedt, Russell; and eight siblings Bud Knackstedt, Russell, Nancy (Wayne) Woodyard, Hutchinson, Dennis (Beth) Knackstedt, Golden, Mo., James (Debra) Oliva, Topeka, Barbara Volle, Axtell, and David Goza, Deborah (Don) Johnson, and Alvin Goza, Emporia; and many other family members, friends, and neighbors. Although he had no children, Bob proudly cared for many huskies, most recently Vera and Ima, who have been re-homed in the community.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell. Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with family present to greet friends from 6 to 7 p.m.  A Celebration of Life will be held later in Ely, Minn.

Memorials have been established with the Russell Boy Scout Troop No. 118 and the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of arrangements.