Robert Daniel Bardwell

Robert Daniel Bardwell was born on May 25, 1947, in Fosston, Minn., to Lester and Jeanne (Dodge) Bardwell. He spent his early years exploring the Clearwater River and riding scooters with cousins in the north woods – a time filled with adventure and imagination. At age nine, the Bardwell family journeyed west in their blue and white Chevy Belair, towing a little trailer all the way to California, where Jeanne had grown up. After a brief stay, they moved again in 1957 to Spring Valley, Minn., where Lester began work in the iron ore mines and the family settled in for good.

Bob graduated from Stewartville High School in 1965, where he excelled in wrestling and gained many life lessons under the mentorship of Coach Howard Sloneker. He went on to attend Pillsbury Baptist Bible College in Owatonna, graduating in 1969 with a degree in Theology. But more valuable than any diploma were the deep, lifelong friendships he formed there. Bob later earned his Master of Divinity from Central Baptist Theological Seminary in 1973 and a Master’s in Counseling from Winona State University.

While Bob accumulated knowledge through study, it was the “heart knowledge” he gained at age 19 that most deeply defined his life. During a summer working at Horn Creek Ranch in Westcliffe, Colo., Bob accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior – an experience that would shape his purpose and mission for the rest of his life.

At age 26, Bob’s path took a dramatic turn when a heavy construction accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. Though devastating, it was this very event that opened the door to his greatest calling: the founding of Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch. Established in 1976, Ironwood began as a boys ranch – just a dream in the heart of a man with a big vision. That dream quickly grew into a powerful ministry that has touched the lives of thousands, especially those living with physical and cognitive disabilities. Ironwood has become a sanctuary of healing, joy, and spiritual renewal; it offers a wide range of programs for individuals and families with disabilities, as well as for military families, providing respite, connection and hope. In addition, Ironwood serves as a retreat center, welcoming outside groups to utilize its accessible facilities and experience all the ranch has to offer. Every aspect of the camp is designed to foster inclusion, making it possible for people of all abilities to grow in faith and enjoy life together. Bob lived out the heart and purpose behind Ironwood every day: to honor God and love people. Bob and Marilyn Seehusen were childhood friends who married in 1972. Their marriage lasted 16 years; Marilyn was an essential partner in the early days of Ironwood Springs and remains a friend and supporter of the ministry.

In 1988, Bob met the love of his life, Jode Fox. They married in 1991 and were blessed with four beautiful, amazing daughters: Hannah (1993), and triplets Lydia, Abigail, and Birdie (1995). Bob often said that no greater gift had been given to him than his girls. Bob’s girls were truly the delight of his life. Bob loved music and wanted to share that with his girls. Together, they formed the band, “The Joyful Noise” and occasionally performed before his speaking engagements. Bob was often invited to travel across the country to share his story. He loved his ministry as a motivational speaker.  

As time went on, Bob welcomed sons-in-law who became like the sons he had always dreamed of: Hannah married Brandon Christenson, Lydia married Tucker Speltz, Abigail married Drew Owen, and Birdie married Seth Koneczny. Bob cherished each of these men and confidently passed the torch of leadership to them with love and trust.

Then came the grandchildren  – another wave of pure joy in Bob’s life. He adored Thomas and Sullivan (age 4), Hudson and Collins (3), Milo (2), and Ellie (1), with his seventh grandchild expected in October 2025. Each little life brought him boundless happiness and a renewed sense of wonder at God’s design for the family.

Throughout his life, Bob chose gratitude and perseverance. His unwavering message to those he encountered was simple but powerful: “Don’t Quit. Finish strong.” Bob embodied that message to the very end. Bob fought the good fight and finished his earthly race on July 24, 2025. We are confident he was welcomed into eternity with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

A public visitation will be held at the Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch Chapel Sunday August 3, 2025. from 3-6 p.m. A private memorial service will be held at a later time. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville, Minn. Condolences and memories of Bob are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9