Robert L. Lister, 78, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026.

Robert was born on April 25, 1948, in Duluth, Minnesota, to Robert Sr. and Dorothy (Mankowski) Lister. He graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD), where he earned his bachelor’s degree before beginning a distinguished 48-year career in arena and convention center management. For 30 of those years, he proudly served as Executive Director of the Grand Wayne Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where his leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence helped make the convention center a valued part of the community.

Robert’s greatest joy began long before his career, when he married his high school sweetheart, Robin, in 1969. Together they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family. Robert and Robin were members of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, and St. Vincent’s Catholic Church in Fort Wayne, IN, faithfully serving their parish communities throughout their lives.

Those who knew Robert will remember his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor. He was always ready with a joke, bringing laughter wherever he went. He could also be delightfully stubborn, a trait his family came to love just as much as his infectious smile. In high school and college he was a guitarist in a local band, The Conquerers, and throughout his life he enjoyed sharing music with family and friends. He also loved completing puzzles and spending time around the table playing cards and games with his children and grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Dorothy Lister. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Robin Lister; his children, Christopher (Melinda) Lister, Patrick (Shannan) Lister, and Jennifer (Mark) Harasim; his sister, Cynthia (Bruce) Lobermeier; and his nine cherished grandchildren, who will forever remember his laughter, his stories, and the love he shared so generously.

Private services will be held.