Robert William Erenberg was born to Oscar B. and Ella (Severson) Erenberg in Benson on August 10, 1920. He was baptized and confirmed at Our Savior?s Lutheran Church in Benson. He graduated from Benson High School in 1939. He worked with his father until 1942 when he enlisted in the US Army Air Force. He became a pilot and combat glider pilot during World War II. His overseas service was with the 5th Army Air Force in the Pacific Theater until his honorable discharge in 1946. Upon returning from service he became co-owner and manager of the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company.Bob married Evelyn Hollen in 1948 at Immanuel Lutheran Church. They were blessed with four children and 65 years of married life together. Bob was a member of the Benson Fire Department for 24 years and served as Fire Chief for seven years. He was also a member of Swift Masonic Lodge, Shriner Zuhrah Temple, VFW Post 1403, American Legion Post 62, National WW II Glider Pilot Association and the Polar Bear Chapter of Arctic Adventures. He enjoyed spending his retirement years at his Lake Scandi property.Robert died on Saturday evening, February 8, at his home in Benson. He had attained 93 years, 5 months, and 28 days of age.He is survived by his wife, Evelyn, of Benson; four children: Mark Erenberg of Lauderdale, MN, David Erenberg (friend Vicki) of Anoka, Susan (Rudy) Palenik of Columbus, OH, and Anita (Richard) Gallagher of Excelsior; eight grandchildren: Anthony, Nathaniel, Dana, Sarah, Amanda, Ross, Ryan, and Andrea; five great-grandchildren: Sophie, Rachel, Adrian, Annika, and Aurora; nieces, nephews, and other family. He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Douglas and Richard Erenberg; and two sisters and their spouses: Evelyn and Harold Anderson, and Florence and Clifford Hedberg.
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