Major Robert L. "Bob" Lundin USAF Ret

1933 - 2025

MAJOR ROBERT (BOB) L. LUNDIN (USAF RET)
May 14, 1933 - May 14, 2025
On May 14, 2025, Major Robert (Bob) L Lundin (USAF Ret) completed his last mission, passing just 62 days after his wife of almost 58 years, Eileen Doyle Lundin. Born in North Platte, Nebraska, to Rudolph and Maxine Lundin in 1934, Bob was a standout athlete in football and track and field at North Platte High School. He followed his older brother, Fritz, to the University of Denver.

After graduation, he joined the United States Air Force, underwent pilot training, and ultimately qualified as an aircraft commander, operating the Boeing B-47E Stratojet in the Strategic Air Command. On May 26, 1964, following an overnight flight from Pease AFB, NH, to Upper Heyford AFB, England, then Captain Lundin survived a catastrophic crash caused by a mechanical failure that resulted in a complete loss of engine power on the left side of the bomber. He suffered severe burns in the crash but ultimately recovered to resume flying.

In 1970, he was selected for foreign duty in Bolivia, South America. Both he and Eileen completed the Spanish course at the Military Language School in Washington, D.C., and then moved to Santa Cruz, in eastern Bolivia. During their time in Bolivia, the US media reported rumors of Bob's involvement in a coup to overthrow the sitting government – rumors that he and the US State Department ultimately denied.

Upon returning to the US, Bob supported navigator training and basic flight training for foreign officers. Subsequently, he flew combat missions in South Vietnam and an unnamed adjacent country. He retired after 20 years in the USAF, having received numerous awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Airman's Medal, and a Meritorious Service Medal, as well as decorations from many foreign Air Forces for his service.

In retirement, Bob became a United Nations employee, working for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and he and Eileen enjoyed aviation-related assignments in Argentina, Brazil, China, and finally Canada.

After their second retirement, they returned to San Antonio. Bob joined the local Porsche club, serving as its vice president for many years and participating in rallies and competitions across the country. Always a supportive husband, he provided the foundation for Eileen's work, which included her many charity interests. Additionally, the couple enjoyed many years of traveling to experience food, wine, art, and music around the world.

He is survived by his daughters, Linda Lundin-Tereba and Susie Lawler (Jim); his grandchildren, Emily and Haleigh Tereba, and Matthew Lawler; and his sister-in-law, Cindy Lundin. He was predeceased by a son, Robert Lundin, Jr., and his brother, Fritz Lundin. He is also survived by his niece, Michele Hart-Henry, who lovingly cared for him and Eileen in their final years.

A memorial service will be held for Bob on Friday, July 11, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Ft Sam Houston National Cemetery, where his ashes will be interred alongside his wife's.

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