Robert “Bob” E. Sterkel, 87, passed away May 8, 2023 at his home in Gering, Nebraska after struggling for many years with Alzheimer’s. Bob was born on July 15, 1935 in Minatare, Nebraska to Conrad Sterkel Jr. and Anna (Schnell) Sterkel. At his request, a cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held at a later date at the Alliance Veteran’s Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association or Faith Lutheran Church. Fond memories and messages of sympathy may be left at www.geringchapel.com
Bob grew up on a farm near Potter, Nebraska. After graduating high school, Bob enlisted in the Army. He served during the Korean Conflict and was stationed throughout the US and Japan.
His military obligation complete, Bob began his 30 year career with General Motors at their production plant in Van Nuys, California, retiring as the plant manpower coordinator. After his retirement from GM, Bob spent five years with PAS Inc., producing General Motors modified and prototype vehicles in California, Louisiana, and Michigan.
Bob married Patsy Green (who he met on a blind date) on August 29, 1958. Two boys later, their family was complete. Their “fun time” as a family was spent attending the boys’ functions, square dancing, golfing, camping, water skiing, and dirt biking/dune buggy riding in the desert. After Patsy’s retirement, Bob was able to achieve his goal of driving his Foretravel Motorcoach through Alaska, all the lower 48 states, the maritime, and the Canadian Providences, while spending the winters in Palm Springs playing golf. In 2003, Bob completed his bucket list by living in a small home with a view on a golf course, and Bob and Patsy returned to the “good life,” moving to Gering, Nebraska.
Bob is survived by his wife, Patsy; sons, Gary (Rene) of Dayton, Texas, and Bryan (Jennifer) of The Woodlands, Texas; granddaughters, Dana (Rolando) Zuniga of Watsonville, California, and Katey Sterkel of Santa Cruz, California; grandsons, Colton Sterkel of Reno, Nevada, and Ethen Sterkel of Missoula Montana; great-grandchildren, Paris and Christopher Zuniga; sister, Bonnie Volner of Palmdale, California; brother and sister-in-law, James and Connie Green of Rapid City, South Dakota; plus many nieces and nephews he visited during his travels.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, LeRoy and Rodney; and sister, Marilyn.
The family would like to extend their thanks to Regional West Hospice and Helping Hands staff members for the kind and supportive care they provided our father.