Robert Russell Adams, known to many as Mailman Bob, passed away on April 26, 2026, in Frederic, Wisconsin, at the age of 74.

Bob was born on March 2, 1952, in Erie, Pennsylvania. He spent his early years in Fairview, PA, and developed a work ethic, a love of the outdoors, a passion for sports, and loyalty to his family. He graduated from Fairview High School in 1970 and later attended UW-Superior, where he studied Environmental Science. There he met the love of his life, woman he would marry, and mother of their children, Maria. 

Bob began his career at Parker White Metal in Erie, Pennsylvania, and later worked at Hartzell’s and ITP in St. Croix Falls, where he served as a foreman. He eventually found his calling as a Rural Carrier for the United States Postal Service, a role he held for more than 20 years. In this position, he took pride in his work and was always willing to go the extra mile. For example, he would walk mail to the doors of the elderly or disabled who might not have been able to get to the mailbox. He would even come in early on Christmas morning to deliver any packages that might have been left behind, ensuring kids received their presents on Christmas Day.

Bob was also a generous man, always willing to help a friend in need by offering a loan when they fell on hard times, even if he knew he was unlikely to get repaid.

Bob was a Presbyterian, and his faith was strong. He believed he felt closest to God when he was in nature and seeing all the wonders god had made and allowed him to be part of. He was known as intelligent, generous, and handy, qualities that showed in both his work and his everyday life. Whether he was fixing his car, knowing all the Jeopardy questions, or offering sound advice to someone in crisis, Bob had a way about him that people really respected.

He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He also liked going to music festivals, reading the paper, cheering on his Pittsburgh Steelers, and relaxing at the local watering hole with a Miller High Life in hand. These simple pleasures showed the kind of man he was.

Bob passed away from congestive heart failure, a condition the doctors had told him a year prior would take his life in a matter of days.

Bob didn't like being told what to do, so he proved them all wrong by living alone in his house for an additional year to the day after his diagnosis. Even after that he pressed on for another six weeks living with family. He passed peacefully with his family by his side and was ready to go see his son, Derek, and parents Pearl and Russell, who preceded him in death.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Leif & Kessia; and grandchildren, Kayla, Austin, Benjamin, and Harrison. Little Brother, Tom, and Big Sister Sandy.

There will be a remembrance held on Saturday, May 9th, 2026 at the St. Croix Tavern (110 S Washington St, St Croix Falls, WI 54024) from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. There will be plenty of food, friends, and stories about Bob.

Last Update: Apr 30, 2026 9:28 am CDT