Robert E Riebe

Robert Earl Riebe Obituary

Robert Earl Riebe passed away June 4, 2024, at home in Sun City West, AZ, with his wife and youngest son by his side.

He was born June 16, 1940, in Minot, ND, to Mabel (Norberg) and Earl Riebe.

Robert married Sharron Hagen June 1, 1963, in Webster, SD. The couple raised three children, Kimberly, Michael and Mark.

Robert attended Minot Public Schools from kindergarten through high school graduation and State School of Science in Wahpeton, ND; and is a graduate of Minot State University. He served his country in the Army National Guard and was activated during the Berlin Crisis of 1961.

Robert was hired by Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. to begin a lasting career in telecommunications, during which he worked for several corporations. His career took the family from North Dakota to Iowa to Illinois and to Minnesota, where he retired.

Outside of work, he was involved in church and Scouting activities. He was most proud of raising two Eagle Scouts and watched as all four  grandchildren also became Eagle Scouts. Robert was equally proud of witnessing his daughter being ordained a Lutheran pastor. He loved hunting, fishing, boating, camping, golf, card-playing and reading.

Robert loved being on the water in his boats while in Wisconsin and Minnesota. He was able to take special hunting and fishing trips, including fishing in the Boundary Waters and pheasant hunting in North Dakota. He enjoyed traveling both land and sea.  He and Sharron visited all 50 states and several countries in Europe.

Robert lived life to the fullest. He inherited his father's feistiness and his mother's gentleness. There was a reason his high school yearbook stated: "He needs no introduction, he speaks for himself."

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; sister Judy; brothers-in-law Richard, Gary, Don and Bruce; and sister-in-law Eileen. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Sharron; daughter Kimberly of Fargo, ND; sons Michael (Rebecca) of Waveland, MS, and Mark, (Kathy) of Columbia, MO; four grandchildren Spencer, Mason, Lucy and Gage; sister Joan Holum of Surprise, AZ; sisters and brothers-in-law Joran, Bonnie, Rene´e and Jerry, Leroy and Bev, Dallas and Nancy, Vince and Mary, and Stephen; and many nieces; nephews; and wonderful friends.

A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 15, at  Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 13724 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West, AZ.

Memorials/donations in lieu of flowers may be made to your favorite charity or to Hospice of the Valley, 14066 West Waddell Road, Surprise, AZ 85379.