Joseph Neil Brobjorg

Joseph Neil Brobjorg was born October 11, 1959, to Jennings and Anna (Dabrowski) Brobjorg. He grew up in NE Minneapolis with humble beginnings and a family filled with love. Joe was baptized at Holy Cross Catholic Church where he attended parochial school and was an altar boy.  In 1977, he graduated from Edison High School. Joe then graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1981 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He started his career via an internship at NSP, now Xcel Energy, and remained there these past 40 years. He often told people that he was “just a coal handler”. Joe enjoyed his job and had recently started to plan his retirement.

Joe has been happily married to Mary Blem Brobjorg these past 36 years and the biggest joy of his life was the birth of their sons, Dan and Nate. Family and traditions meant everything to him. Joe especially enjoyed hosting for Thanksgiving, and treating the extended family to his famous stuffing along with bacon wrapped turkeys. His traditions will most certainly be carried forward.

Joe searched long and hard for the perfect parcel of land in Maple Grove to build the family home. He referred to it as “the lot with a halo”; this now takes on an entirely new meaning. Joe was a lifelong learner, and in this home, his sons “fondly” recall his penchant for over-explaining things until they were blue in the face.

Joe was kind, honest, humorous and sported a huge, contagious smile. His consistency was evident in his go-to outfit of blue and white oxford shirts, sportscoat, and if a special occasion then add the red tie. Joe loved family outings to Gull Lake, vacations to Maui, or traveling anywhere else with sun, surf, and sand. Golfing with his brother and sons were cherished times; his clubs will now be swung by Nate. Joe had a green thumb and loved nature. His relish of craft breweries and food trucks will be the impetus for a post-pandemic and public celebration in his honor.

Joe truly lived life to the fullest!!

Joe is survived by his wife, Mary; proud sons, Dan and Nate; sister Julie (Conrad) Gertz, brothers John and Jerome (Janet); nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded by parents, Jennings and Anna; and brother, Jeff.

Mass of Christian Burial Saturday (12/19), 11 AM at the Church of the Holy Cross, 1621 University Ave. NE., Mpls.  There will also be an option to stream Joe's service on the church’s website ( https://youtu.be/hrOO3pLlpJI ).  Private family visitation Friday (12/18) 6-7 PM at Gearty-Delmore Plymouth Chapel, 15800 37th Ave. North.  Public visitation Saturday, 9-10 AM ALSO at Gearty-Delmore Plymouth Chapel before leaving for the 11 AM Mass at the Church of the Holy Cross.

In lieu of flowers, and in the spirit of Christmas, we know Joe would prefer a donation to your favorite charity in his name.