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Robert Frykenberg Obituary
June 8, 1930 - April 15, 2025
MADISON - Robert Eric Frykenberg, 94, 15 April, 2025. Born 8 June 1930 to Carl Eric and Doris Marie (Skoglund) Frykenberg, Ootacamund, India.
Attended Breeks (Ooty), Highclerc (Kodaikanal International), Wheaton Academy. Bethel College and Seminary (Bethel University). Ordained (Baptist) in Minneapolis. UC-Berkeley (graduate school). SOAS University of London (doctorate). Faculty, University of Chicago (1961-62). Professor of History and South Asian Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison (1962-98).
In 1952 married Carol E. Addington of St. Paul, MN (deceased 12 May 2024). Survived by brother, John; three children, Ann Lewis, Brian Frykenberg (Sarah), Craig Frykenberg (Audrey); five grandchildren, Ian Lewis (Samantha), Rachel (Myko) Olivier, Matthew Frykenberg (Paulina), Samuel Frykenberg, David Frykenberg; and five great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at Oakwood on Friday, 23 May 2025, 11 a.m., at Resurrection Chapel, Oakwood University Woods. In lieu of flowers, kindly send donations to Oakwood Foundation, 6205 Mineral Point Road, Madison WI 53605.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Frykenberg
5 Entries
Bill Burrows
April 24, 2025
Every encounter with Bob was to reverence the spirit of scholarship and friendship that he exuded. He's one of the best of a generation of historians of mission and religion. May the Lord receive him with love and help him understand how his life was an example for us all.
Barry and Deborah McLeish
April 22, 2025
We have wonderful memories of Bob and Carol from "growing up" at Faith Baptist Church and from IVCF. He spoke to our UW IVCF Chapter during our time there adding considerably to the academic nature of our chapter meetings. We truly appreciate his work and character, and offer our condolences to his family.
Eric Chase
April 18, 2025
I met Bob in the 1960's when he and his family lived opposite our then home 'Red Craig' in Nungambakkam back in the days that Chennai was called Madras!
I will never forget two things:
1. The 1700's map of Madras that Bob spread out on our veranda floor showing us our house on it, and
2. My being told by my father that I was named after Bobs dad!
Sad to see Bob go, having been friends with him on Face Book for these last few years since first meeting him back in the 1960's.
My condolences to the family!
Jim Latimer
April 18, 2025
Our sincere condolences to all the family. We know that Robert and Carol supported music in a big way. Brian, we remember this so well from our WYSO days. Prayers for all. Jim and MJ Latimer
Cynthia Reynolds
April 18, 2025
Very sad to hear this news. Gary and I send our deepest condolences.
We want to attend the memorial service. Please keep us posted.
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