1931 to 2008  
 
   

In Loving Memory...

Bob Werling

"Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and in Bob Werling, and the God of peace will be with you."

PHILIPPIANS 4: 8-9
Sightly Modified

 

Robert Keith Werling passed away on June 22nd, 2008, after a short illness. “Bob” will be greatly missed by his family, friends and the church community he loved.  He lived his life as an example to all of us; his favorite advice was, “Don’t sweat the small stuff, and everything is small stuff”.

Bob was born in New Haven, Indiana on September 28th, 1931 to Esther and Paul Werling.  He was the second of three boys. His father died when Bob was just 4 years old, and a few years later his mother moved her little family to California. Bob graduated from Pasadena City College in 1949 and joined the Air Force in 1951.  After his discharge he worked for Douglas Aircraft Company, General Electric and NASA.  In 1967 he was hired by Lockheed Missiles and Space Co., and he was employed there for 26 years.  He retired as Facilities Manager.

Bob was very proud of his BS degree in Business Administration.  He graduated Magna cum Laude from the College of Notre Dame in 1977, all while working full time supporting his family and attending classes at night. He and his first wife Carol raised two daughters, Virginia (Ginny) and Alycen, who were Bob’s pride and joy.

Bob married Christa in October 1981 and cherished their life together for over 26 years.  They enjoyed Folk-Dancing, while still nimble, and traveling in retirement. His family grew over the years as the grandchildren came upon the scene, and he loved them all like his own.  His merged family include Ginny, her husband Eric, their sons Stephen and wife Kate; Jeffrey, his wife Michelle and their daughter Hannah; Alycen, her husband Jim, their sons David and Rory; Alexander, his wife Anne-Marie, their daughter Gianna and son Gabriel; Veronica, her husband David, their daughter Katie and son Josiah; Sylvia, her husband Tom, their daughter Danielle and son Joshua; son Otmar (who preceded him in death) his daughters Amanda and Amber.  His family surrounded him in his final hours, as they did during his life.  Bob also leaves two brothers, Richard and William, many cousins and nieces and nephews who meant so much to him.

Bob’s life revolved around family and church. As a long-time choir member, he was known as one of ‘The Boys in The Back-Row’. When the new sanctuary was built, in the 1980’s, Bob was the building chairperson. He was the ‘lone’ property committee for many years, until in the last several years he was joint by an energetic Wednesday morning crew; seeing the place well maintained gave him great pleasure. He lent a helping hand to anyone who needed it and was loved by so many. His big, infectious laugh and great bear-hugs will never be forgotten.

The family would like Bob remembered as the kind, gentle, and loving man he was— with a great sense of humor.  He had a strong faith in his Lord, which guided him home to his Lord

-Reflections by Christa & Alycen

Memorial Gifts
May be made to ELCA World Hunger Program, in memory of Bob Werling. Please make the check payable to "Prince of Peace Lutheran Church" and in the memo line write "ELCA World Hunger". Address: 12770 Saratoga Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070