Bobby "Bob"

G. Erwin

Bobby "Bob" Gene Erwin, 93, of O'Neill, died Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025 at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.

Visitation was held Monday, Feb. 10, 2025 at First United Methodist Church in O'Neill.

Funeral services were held Monday, Feb. 10, 2025 at the church in O'Neill. Pastor Bob Wynn officiated.

Burial was in the O'Neill Cemetery in O'Neill with military rites provided by the O'Neill American Legion Simonson Post 93 and O'Neill VFW Post 926.

Memorials may be made to the athletic departments at St. Mary's High School and O'Neill Public High School in Bob's name.

Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill was in charge of the arrangements.

Bobby was born March 19, 1931 in O'Neill to Roy and Ella (Wilkinson) Erwin.  His parents were divorced at a young age and Bob was raised by Woodrow and Ella Grim.  Bob grew up in O'Neill and attended O'Neill High School, graduating with the class of 1949.

Bob served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Toledo during the Korean War from 1950 to 1954.  While Bob was home on leave, he married Barbara Hancock on Aug. 15, 1953 at the Methodist Church in O'Neill, they were married for 47 years before Barbara's passing in 2001. Together, they welcomed five children into their family.

They made their lifelong home in O'Neill where Bob worked for 20 years for Gillette Dairy and 22 years for Metz Baking Company, retiring in 1993.  

After retirement Bob kept busy working for NPPD and driving school bus for many activities at St. Mary's High School and O'Neill High School until the age of 89.

Bob was a long-time member of the O'Neill VFW, American Legion Post 93, O'Neill First United Methodist Church and the O'Neill Country Club.

Bob enjoyed being outdoors, fishing, hunting and camping with his family.  In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Bob had an enduring passion for automobiles, particularly in refurbishing classic Volkswagen Beetles and his Ford Bronco.  His hands were rarely idle, as he consistently engaged in various home projects, showcasing his creativity and craftsmanship.

Bob is survived by his five children Terry Hall of Omaha, Steve (Penny) Erwin of Mesa, AZ, Jeff (Cathy) Erwin and John (Robin) Erwin, all of Norfolk, and Stacie (John) Schutte of Allen; 14 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant sister Betty Lou, wife Barbara, step-father Woodrow Grim and special friend Leona Hershiser.