Rest in Peace: Bob Armitage, Respected Leader, Mentor and Friend

Posted on January 8, 2019 by Jodi Boyne

It is with a heavy heart that we share that Bob Armitage, a respected leader, mentor and friend, died peacefully on Jan. 5 in the company of his family.  

Bob was the long-time President and CEO of the Board of Social Ministry, the forerunner of Ecumen. During his time with the Board of Social Ministry, Bob not only led the organization through significant growth and diversification of their service portfolio across the state, but also shaped the work of LeadingAge national and LeadingAge Minnesota through his years of service on our respective Boards of Directors.

Upon his retirement from the Board of Social Ministry in 2002, Bob was awarded LeadingAge Minnesota’s Lifetime Achievement award for his many contributions to our Association, for his mentorship of provider leaders and for his many contributions to the field of older adult services.

Among his singular contributions to aging services, Bob led the fundraising drive that established the endowment for the University of Minnesota’s Long-Term Care Chair, a legacy that continues to benefit all those committed to enhancing the experience of aging in our state.

“When Bob stepped down from his role at the Board of Social Ministry, he was celebrated at his retirement gathering as someone who “took the road less traveled by” - referring to his authenticity and willingness to give voice to points of view he felt passionate about, even if those views might be seen by some as controversial,” said Gayle Kvenvold, President and CEO of LeadingAge Minnesota. “He was deeply passionate about missions of service to seniors, accountability to our communities, and to making a difference in the world. We remember Bob, his beloved wife Kathy and all his family with love and gratitude.”

Obituary, Visitation and Service Arrangements: Visitation will be held on Friday, Jan. 11, from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 2800 Curve Crest Boulevard, Stillwater, Minnesota. The Service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 12 at 11 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 150 Fifth Street, Marine on the St. Croix, MN with Visitation that day from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Memorials preferred to Lakeview Hospice, Christ Lutheran Church or Family Means. For more details, please see the Obituary for Bob Armitage .