Robert J. Laeger, 89, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully at his home on May 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and four daughters.
Bob was born on February 21, 1935, to John and Hazel Laeger in Ord, Nebraska. He began his education at a country school near Hemingford, Nebraska and completed grade school at the Seventh-day Adventist School. Bob attended high school at Platte Valley Adventist Academy in Shelton, Nebraska graduating in 1953. It was there that he met his beloved wife, Elaine Sherrill. They were married for 68 wonderful years.
After graduation, Bob moved to Denver, Colorado, where he played a role in the construction of Porter Adventist Hospital. In 1955, he enlisted in the United States Army where he was stationed in Washington, DC. Bob served in the White Coats, a unit known for their participation in medical research. Bob and Elaine were married on June 10, 1956.
In 1958, the couple returned to Hemingford, Nebraska, where Bob joined his father, John, in farming. In addition, Bob and John sold Pioneer Seed Corn where they continually were top in sales for the company and provided unmatchable customer service to his colleagues in the farming community. Bob was known for his meticulous attention to detail in his farming operation and his dedication to his family, friends, and community. Bob and Elaine were blessed with four daughters: Sherri, Julie, Lori, and Trish. Bob continued farming with passion until his retirement in 1999.
Upon retiring, Bob and Elaine moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, where they enjoyed the next chapter of their lives until 2014, when they relocated to Mesa, Arizona.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Elaine; daughters, Sherri, Julie, Lori, and Trish; sons-in-law, Lee Earnhardt, Mike Goebel and Jeff Reinert; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his sister, Elaine Jones; brother, Wayne Laeger and special nephew Brad Laeger. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Hazel Laeger.
Bob will be remembered for his hard work, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his family and friends. A memorial service will be held on June 15, 2024, at 2:00 pm at the Mesa Palms SDA church in Mesa, Arizona with burial to follow at a later date at the Hemingford Cemetery.
Bob’s life was a testament to the values of love, dedication, and service. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Memorials may be made in memory of Bob to:
Suncrest Hospice
4650 E Cotton Center Blvd
Suite 250
Phoenix, AZ 85040