Robert Gottlieb Elbe, 90, Mountain, passed away Friday, March 14, 2014. He was born Dec. 14, 1923, to the late Gust and Rose (Fuchs) Elbe.
Bob enjoyed his beloved land and his Christmas tree plantation on the outskirts of Mountain. His trees were sheered to perfection, and many families had a tradition of picking out that special tree.
His hunting in Wisconsin and the Powder Horn Mountains of Wyoming were a highlight every year. He was an avid snowmobiler and broke our trails deep in the forest. He was so happy in nature and on his land.
Bob was foreman with Sweeney Brothers Construction and was a hardworking man. He was a member of Tabor Lutheran Church in Mountain.
A familiar story he told was that he was a bachelor for many years as he was waiting for his special lady, Marvel. They enjoyed dancing with the big name swing bands. From early spring, when the first wildflowers were up, until fall, he would bring Marvel flowers every day from his land, and they were handed to her with a kiss.
Bob joined the United States Army in March 1943 and served until January 1946. He served with the Headquarters Company, 672nd Anti-Tank Battalion in the Pacific Theatre. Bob was involved in the battle of Huzon and Borneo and was awarded the Philippines Liberation Ribbon, the American Theatre Service Metal and the Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Service Medal, among others. He was very proud of his service to his country.
Bob was honored in April 2011 for 65 years in the Mountain Zitske Estabrook VFW for his continuous membership. He was a proud veteran of the foreign wars.
Bob is survived by his wife, Marvel (Kahler Schaal); his stepson, Richard (Helen) Schaal; his stepdaughter, Nancy Vandenput; two grandchildren, Stacy Vandenput and Carrie Schaal; great-great-grandchildren, Haylem and Belle. Bob is further survived by his brother, Tom (Marge) Elbe, and many nieces and nephews.
He has joined his siblings, Ester, Ruth, Donna, Rose, Marie, Wally, Paul “Buck” and Reinhold, in heaven and his son-in-law and buddy, Don Vandenput.
Visitation was held at Tabor Lutheran Church in Mountain on Tuesday, March 18, from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Paul Scheunemann officiating. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.
We would like to thank Woodland Village Nursing and its staff for the excellent care offered to Bob during his time of need. One of the beautiful nurses confirmed what we have always known. She said, “Bob was a gentleman.”
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