Robert Bob Eckstein, 77, died on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at Innovis Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Funeral service will be at 1:30 P.M. on Sunday, April 5, 2009 at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, MN with Pastor Aaron Zuch officiating. Burial will be in Wylie Cemetery, rural Red Lake Falls, MN.

Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Saturday, April 4, 2009 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN with a 7:00 P.M prayer service on Saturday evening. Visitation will also be held at the church for one hour prior to the service on Sunday.

Robert Bob Eckstein was born on September 7, 1931 in Browns Creek Township, Red Lake County, MN, the son of Fred and Adena (Harbott) Eckstein. He was baptized at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wylie, MN and also confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church on June 4, 1944. He attended school in Red Lake Falls, graduating from Lafayette High School. Bob enlisted for a short time in the United States Air Force.

He farmed with his father for several years before he was united in marriage to Janice Harbott on December 30, 1961. Following their marriage they moved to Thief River Falls where Bob was employed at Hartz Wholesale for over 30 years. Following his retirement Bob worked for Mehrkens Farms for several years.

Bob was fond of playing Solitaire, keeping his yard maintained and farming with his dad in his earlier years. He loved studying the Bible and listening to classical music, especially violin. His greatest love was spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. Robert loved his wife Jan so much and did everything he could for her.

He was a member of St. Johns Lutheran Church, where he served as an Elder and former treasurer. He enjoyed working with the Youth Group and teaching Bible School.

Bob is survived by his wife Janice of Thief River Falls, MN; children: Tom (Andrea) Eckstein of Jamestown, ND, Jeff (Jeanette) Eckstein of Thief River Falls, MN and Tami (Mike) Veil of Coon Rapids, MN; grandchildren: Birgitta, Joshua, Christianna, Vanessa, Marissa, Ryan, David and Monica; two sisters: Phyllis Gaven of St. Hilaire, MN and Marion Anderson of Anchorage, Alaska as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Roger Eckstein, Virgil Eckstein and infant brother, Fred Eckstein, Jr.; and one sister, Verda Almquist.

ORGANIST: John Folland
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross , How Great Thou Art , Peace Like A River , Abide With Me and (You Lift Me Up CD)
CASKETBEARERS: Gary Almquist, Rob Almquist, Terry Eckstein, Don Huot, Mike Huot and Richard Eckstein