Robert L. “Bob” Arians, 87, of Morrison, IL, died Monday, September 1, 2014, at Morrison Community Hospital, Morrison.
Robert was born August 13, 1927, in Sterling, IL, to John R. and Hulda (Stralow) Arians. He was educated in the Morrison grade schools and graduated from Morrison High School. He began his life on the family farm just outside of Morrison where he resided, and was the third generation to farm the land. Robert served in the 279th Infantry of the 45th Division during the Korean War, and was a POW for 16 months until the war ended, when he was repatriated. Robert received a Combat Infantry Badge, United Nations Service Medal, The National Defense Service Medal, and a Purple Heart for his service in the Armed Forces, and was honorably discharged as a Master Sergeant in 1953. He recently participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, D. C. He enjoyed flying, owning his own plane, and traveling abroad, traveling to four continents. He was Elected Supervisor of Union Grove Township and served on the board of the Fenton/Hillsdale Elevator. Robert was a lifetime member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Morrison, where he served as an elder. Bob’s family, lifelong friends, and neighbors respected and appreciated his willingness to help others, his humor, and his quick wit.
Survivors include two sisters, Joan Rohwer of Normal, IL, and Larinda Eaton of West Chester, PA; one brother, Arlyn (Brenda) Arians of Washburn, IL; a niece and several nephews; great-nieces and -nephews; a great-great-nephew; many cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
MEMORIAL SERVICE: 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 13, 2014, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Morrison, IL, followed by a gathering of family and friends in the church basement for a luncheon at 12:00 noon
OFFICIATING: Rev. Mike Winkelman, Associate Pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Morrison, IL
There will be no visitation.
The Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
At his request, Robert’s body has been donated to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Honor Flight and The University of Iowa’s Deeded Body Program.
Donations Link: Honor Flight