August 11, 1951 – November 30, 2025
Dr. Robert G. Johannesen, 74, of Mason City, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, at his home, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. His life was a journey defined by service, curiosity, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.
Born August 11, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, to John and Mary (Orso) Johannesen, Bob’s early years were spent in New Jersey, where he proudly attended Ranney School in Tinton Falls. He often recalled the wonder he felt attending the 1967 World’s Fair in New York City—an experience that sparked his lifelong fascination with technology, innovation, and the magic of what people can create together.
At age 17, Bob’s family moved to Chicago, where he graduated from St. Charles High School in 1969. He went on to attend Central College in Pella, Iowa, graduating cum laude in 1973. His calling to medicine led him to Loyola Stritch Medical School in Chicago, where he earned his medical degree in February 1977.
Dr. Johannesen began his medical career at the University of Iowa as a general intern before moving to Mason City, where he worked in a small practice for a year. His love of teaching and exploration took him to Michigan and Wyoming, before he returned to emergency medicine—a field that would become the center of his professional life. He served three years in emergency medicine, three years in general practice, and ultimately found his place back in the Emergency Room in 1990, where countless patients and families were comforted by his calm presence, sharp mind, and steady reassurance.
Dr. Bob served as longtime Medical Director of the Mercy Medical Center Emergency Room. His contributions transformed emergency care in North Iowa: he trained EMTs, helped create the paramedic program, ensured defibrillators were placed in every ambulance, and worked tirelessly to bring AirMed to Mason City. His passion for teaching carried into his later years when he transitioned in 2009 to serve the Mercy Residency Program as an attending physician—a role he cherished. He loved mentoring young doctors and took great pride in shaping the next generation of physicians.
Outside of medicine, Bob was a man of lively imagination and skillful hands. He delighted in tinkering with electronics, rebuilding gadgets, and finding joy in the challenges of making things work better than before. Many will remember him as “Bobby J” from his days as a radio DJ, where his wit and charm shone brightly. He once built a dorrie boat in his garage—christened the Hunky Dorrie—and celebrated her maiden voyage on the Mississippi River with characteristic good humor.
Perhaps nothing delighted Bob more than Disney. With over 50 visits under his belt, he never tired of the Country Bear Review, It’s a Small World, the monorail, or the Walt Disney Theater. He believed deeply in the power of wonder, imagination, and joy—and he shared that belief with everyone around him.
Above all, Bob was a family man. He adored his children and grandchildren, proudly sharing their latest stories, accomplishments, and adventures with anyone who would listen. His love for his family was a constant—steady, generous, and full of warmth.
Dr. Robert Johannesen leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, curiosity, and love. His impact on the medical community, his family, and the countless lives he touched will endure for generations. Those who knew him will forever remember his gentle humor, his brilliant mind, his boundless enthusiasm, and his heart—always open, always giving.
Those grateful in sharing in Bob’s life include his beloved wife, Wendy; their family, Megan (Reagan) Elsbury, Ventura, Robert “Robby” (Becki) Johannesen, Cedar Rapids, Clarissa (Rich) Welsh, Garner, and Johnathon (Gina) Trone, Mason City; grandchildren, Leo and Penelope Johannesen and Alayna, Valarie, and Evan Welsh; his brother, Michael (Jean) Johannesen, Glenn Ellen, IL and nieces, Laura (Mark) and Paula (Alex) Desimone; mother in law, Val Anderson, Garner; and sister in law, Jody (Scott) Seelhammer and niece, Lydia.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Johannesen; aunt, Matilda “Maddie” Sprung; uncle, Robert “Bob” Johannesen; and his brother in law, Mark Anderson.
A Celebration of Life to honor Bob will be held 11:00 am Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at First United Methodist Church, 119 S. Georgia Ave., Mason City with Pastor Bill Peake officiating.
Bob’s family will greet relatives and friends on Monday, December 15, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St. NE, Mason City.
In lieu of flowers, monetary donations will be distributed to the causes which were so dear to Bob.
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