- December 28, 1953 - February 7, 2016
- Iowa City, Iowa
of Robert "Rob"'s Passing
-
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
123 E. Market Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
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I worked with Rob's eldest daughter, Krista, in college. Through her I met Rob and Stephanie. They welcomed me into their home with open arms. I loved going over for a family dinner as it was one of the things I missed the most after moving away from my hometown. Rob was funny and sweet with an enviable lust for life. One of my favorite memories was coming over for"squwatch dogs," a hot dog dish that Krista had encountered in
Posted by: Allison H Donnaell - Iowa city, IA Feb 11, 2016
Stephanie,
Karen and I extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Rob was a great colleague to work with; always with a smile, passionate about ministry, so supportive of me and my moving towards ordination. As I move into ordained ministry and think about the joy that can be found in this calling, it will be his smile I see in my head and his laughter that I hear. I am so grateful for having had a chance to
Posted by: Brian Middleswarth - Iowa City, IA - Coworker Feb 11, 2016
Rob was one of the best persons I have met on this earth. In an era when no podcasts were in existence, I would attend multiple services to listen to his sermons again and again. I don't recall a time that he ever used notes and every sermon felt as if he were talking directly to you. A great pastor. When he followed his calling to IC, there was a real void in our spiritual life. It truly seems like
Posted by: Joe and Sharon Bertroche - Cedar Rapids, IA - Friend Feb 11, 2016
Remembering him fondly here at St. John's Des Moines.
Posted by: evelyn davis - Des Moines, IA Feb 10, 2016
Rob was a long time cherished colleague in the Lutheran Ministry. I am sad to read of his death. There are few better than he. As pastor, chaplain, leader mentor and friend he touched and influenced many lives, including mine. May he rest in peace!
Posted by: Terry Slinde - Clive, IA Feb 10, 2016
Dear Stephanie and family,
I was so saddened to hear of the death of your dear husband and father from my sister Karen and my Mom Diane Ekstam. Pastor Rob was so courageous in the way that he handled his journey with this advanced illness. I will always remember his love and support of my Dad during his illness as well as the support that he gave to me and my family. I will continue to pray for healing, comfort, and strength at this most difficult time and in the days to come.
With all my love,
Mary Helen Ekstam
Posted by: Mary Helen Ekstam - Naperville, IL - Friend Feb 10, 2016
I took a class with Rob while attending Kirkwood. He was such a great instructor as well as a great person. May you rest with God Rob! Thanks for all your work!
Posted by: CR Feb 10, 2016
I remember Bob and Stephanie from St. John's in Des Moines. I was in Cathedral Choir with Stephanie and my children were young at the time. It was always a pleasure to hear Bob speak at services; he was always so happy. It was sad when they left, however, I am sure they were fulfilled with their ministry in Iowa City. I hope that Stephanie and their family will find strength and peace in Bob's love and memory.
Posted by: Sue Bartik (formerly Whitehead) - Urbandale, IA - Acquaintance Feb 10, 2016
Stephanie,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you and your family are, and shall remain, in my prayers.
Posted by: Myron McReynolds - Coworker Feb 10, 2016
Stephanie, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Rob. My thoughts are with you and your daughters. Sincerely, Pam
Posted by: Pam Ehly - Iowa City, IA - Friend Feb 10, 2016