Oct. 16, 1934 — Feb. 2, 2015

Robert “Bob” Behrle, 80, of Granger, Indiana and formerly of Niles, Michigan died peacefully surrounded by his loving family Monday morning, Feb. 2, 2015 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend.

Bob was born Oct. 16, 1934 in Franklin Park, Illinois to Henry and Margaret Behrle. He was a hard worker even at an early age. His mentor, Mr Knot, took Bob under his wing and put him to work in the stables and around horses. After High School, Bob continued his education at Elmhurst College. He began working at Mars Candy Company just out of school as a dishwasher, then worked his way up to Data Processing and even made an appearance on The Johnny Carson Show for the company dressed in a space suit. After Mars he was employed at Beeline Fashions in the Computer Department and later was the Director of Customer Service and in charge of Field Training.

On April 18, 1981, he married Mary Helman (Heward) in Niles. They were members of the Grace United Methodist Church in Niles, then became members of the Three Oaks United Methodist Church. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason as a member of the F and A.M. in Illinois. After retirement Bob earned his certificate in Lay Ministry and did pulpit supply for area churches. He then became a Pastor, serving at the Galien and Olive Branch United Methodist Churches.

He also used his gifts of ministry and his love of people as a Chaplain at Memorial Hospital for five years offering patients and their families comfort and hope. He was a Godly man who shared his faith with all and was a great testimony. He not only deeply loved his God, his country, his family and friends but lived each day doing good for others and only asking for a “kind word.” He will not only be missed…but also treasured by all he touched. Bob enjoyed fishing in Wisconsin, repairing anything broken, creating an unbreakable bond with his granddaughter Brooklyn during their after school time together, and being with his faithful companions Apollo and granddog Izzo.

Survivors include his wife, Mary; children, Robin Behrle of Twisp, WA; Tamara Behrle of Rouge River, OR; Matthew Behrle of Seattle, WA; Sandy (Damon) Liebscher of Eagle River, WI; Adam (Brenda) Behrle of Rhinelander, WI; Chris (Karol) Behrle of Buchanan, MI and Laura Helman (Neil Henderson) of Granger; grandchildren, Danielle, Rebecca, Zachary, Lucie, Brooklyn. He was preceded in death by his siblings Harry, Margaret, Marilyn and Lou.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 6, 2015, at the Three Oaks United Methodist Church with Pastor Sherri Swanson and Pastor Jeff Cummings officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Pobocik Funeral Home, Three Oaks.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Harbor Country Food Pantry, PO Box 113, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128 or Redbud Area Ministries, 708 Red Bud Trail North, Buchanan, Michigan 49107.

To leave a tribute online, please visit www.pobocik.com.