Minneapolis lost a beloved figure, Willard Sulem Robbins, a former SWHS Hockey Booster and football coach who passed away on March 27, 2025, at the age of 99.
Robbins was known as the “calendar guy” and a cornerstone of the Southwest Minneapolis community.
Will left a legacy of warmth and continuous dedication to his family, friends, and loved ones.
He is survived by his wife of 76 years, Blanche “Dolly” Robbins, a woman who stood by his side through every success and challenge life threw their way.
Will and Dolly met after Will returned from serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II. A Minneapolis native, born and raised by his parents Vearn and Pearl Robbins, Will enlisted as a young man eager to serve his country.
When the war ended, he came home and found his heart in Dolly. They got married, had beautiful children, and spent over seven decades a rare and beautiful example of love and relationship.
Together, they raised three children, welcomed five grandchildren, and delighted in five great-grandchildren.
They loved the simple joys of playing cards like whist, 500, cribbage, and pinochle with friends and family.
They were a competitive duo, often coming out on top. Their adventures took them on family trips out west and north to visit relatives, and later in life, they became regulars in Las Vegas and Laughlin, Nevada, where they no doubt tested their card-playing skills against new opponents.
Willard Sulem Robbins Was A Community Icon
Since the 1950s, he has been a realtor and broker who poured his heart into Lyndale Realty, a business he eventually owned at the bustling corner of Lyndale and Lake in Minneapolis.
But what made him special to South and Southwest Minneapolis residents was his annual tradition of delivering calendars.
Every December, neighborhood kids would fan out, dropping off thousands of calendars to local homes, each featuring a photo of the homeowner’s house, compliments of Lyndale Realty.
It was a small gesture that made people feel seen and connected, earning Will his nickname, the “calendar guy.”
His impact on Minnesota’s real estate world went beyond calendars. Will was a past president of the Real Estate Exchangers Club and played a key role in shaping the industry’s growth.
He believed in doing business with honesty and lifting those around him, a philosophy that carried over into every part of his life.
Will’s passion for sports and youth was legendary.
A longtime football coach for Pershing Park and the Minneapolis Boys Club, he also devoted his energy to mentoring young athletes.
His confidence shone brightest as a SWHS Hockey Booster and as president of the Southwest Football Quarterback Club in 1982.
Whether cheering from the sidelines or strategizing plays, Will was a consistent presence for the kids he coached.
He was also extremely determined to join groups like the Lions Club of Minneapolis, the VFW, and the Exchangers Club, always finding ways to give back.
When he wasn’t coaching or working, Will could often be found with a fishing rod in hand. An avid fisherman, he loved casting lines in Minnesota’s lakes and on trips to Lake Michigan and Canada.
Those quiet moments on the water perfectly balanced his busy, people-filled life. And when he and Dolly traveled, whether to the rugged beauty of the West or the bright lights of Vegas, they made memories that their family still cherishes.
Will’s Passing Has Created A Void, But The Love Shown shows How Much He Meant To Those Who Knew Him
One family member wrote:
“In loving memory of a great man, wonderful uncle, and an amazing cribbage player. He will be missed. Love, Stephen & Julie’
Via The Minnesota Star Tribune
The staff at the Minnesota Star Tribune added,
“We are deeply sorry for your loss – the staff at Minnesota Star Tribune”
Via The Minnesota Star Tribune
These words echo the sentiments of countless others touched by Will’s kindness and spirit.
A memorial service to celebrate Will’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Washburn-McReavy Chapel, 2300 W. Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington.
Rest In Peace, Willard Sulem Robbins.
