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BORN
1936
DIED
2018
Robert Ehrlich Obituary
Bob was born in St Paul, Minn. to Max and Eva Klein Ehrlich. He received a PhD degree in Geology from LSU. He was Professor Emeritus of the University of South Caroline (Geology).
He specialized in advising graduate students to complete degrees based on their interests, abilities and skills.
Bob began his professional career in 1965 as an assistant professor at Michigan State University.
He left MSU in 1974 for a full professorship at the University of South Carolina. He retired from academia in1997 and moved to Salt Lake City.
He had lived in Salt Lake City for the past 20 years.
He was an avid reader of many subjects and lover of classical music. He regularly attended Utah Symphony concerts.
He passed away from complications of advanced prostate cancer which was not detected early and destroyed his health. He did not benefit from early detection due to inept medical care at the Madsen Internal Medicine Clinic.
He is survived by Sarah Ehrlich, his wife of 57 years and extended family in Minneapolis and Texas.
He was laid to rest on July 9, 2018 at the B'nai Israel Cemetery. Family memorial services will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Huntsman Cancer Hospital or Red Butte Garden.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Ehrlich
Jim Mazzullo
August 31, 2022
Ehrlich (never Bob, always Ehrlich): The smartest person I've ever known, my model of a great scientist and thinker, and someone I could talk to about books, politics, music, anything really, as no one ever could do or has done in my life.
I spent 4 years as his grad student, and he taught me how to think about all that I was learning and reading. He was responsible for an enormous amount of my intellectual growth and maturation, and he sent the stage for my subsequent successful careers as a scientist and as a consultant.
I had not talked to him for many years, but his voice was and always will be with me. "Don't be a schmuck, Mazzullo". I try not to be, Ehrlich.
Carol Virginia Ferm Herrick
April 23, 2020
As a kind of adoptive uncle, Bob made my childhood better. His connection to our family enriched us all in innumerable ways. I hope he and my dad are having a blast somewhere.
Robert Benson
April 14, 2020
Bob was second reader on my Master Thesis and was
Rupert Bodden
April 1, 2019
Greatly saddened to hear of your passing, Bob. You were a wonderful teacher, very smart, an innovative thinker, but most importantly, very kind. Many a time as a student I went to speak with you, when I was discouraged & ready to quit. Thirty minutes later I would be leaving your office, thinking "I can do this." You had suggested an approach to whatever obstacle I was facing at the time, but it was your cheerfulness that was the biggest factor in lifting my spirits.
You & Sarah were so warm & hospitable to Marleen, Mary, & me on our visit in 2016. God bless you both.
Margaret Eggers
January 3, 2019
I was so shocked and saddened to find out Bob had died. I was so fortunate to have had him for my PhD professor. His advice and encouragement were why I was able to complete my degree. I have always been grateful but especially cherished getting to know Bob later in life as a friend and colleague. I will miss the chance for more good conversations and much laughter. Our hearts go out to Sarah.
Emery Goodman
December 22, 2018
I was saddened to hear about Bob's passing early this year. He was an outstanding graduate advisor and I owe him a huge debt of gratitude for his mentorship and guidance at South Carolina. He was one of a kind!
Emery Goodman
December 8, 2018
Bob,
You were one of a kind. Thank you so much for giving me a chance when others wouldn't. You had a huge impact on my life. I will never forget you. Joe G.
Marylin
July 28, 2018
O Bob, I'm so glad we had the opportunity to see you and Sara at your celebratory supper. Such a special night for a special couple. Give 'em heck. ;)
Steve
July 23, 2018
Bob was my mentor and friend for decades and I will miss his unique sense of humor. Without him, I would not be where I am today.
July 16, 2018
A close friend and partner in crime for many years. You will be sorely missed.
Melanie Fairman
July 12, 2018
He was a great man, and I am a better person for knowing him.
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