Robert "Bob" E. Ehlers

Robert “Bob” E. Ehlers, 81, of Rockwell City, IA, died Sunday, August 9, 2026, at his home. A celebration of life gathering will be held from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at the Alta Golf and Country Club, 601 E. 6th Street – Alta, IA 51002. Memorials may be directed to the family. Arrangements are with Historic Bruce Funeral Home of Fort Dodge. 

Robert Edward was born August 20, 1944, in Ida Grove, IA, the son of John and Esther (Rohlk) Ehlers. He graduated from Ida Grove High School in 1962. From 1968 – 1970, he proudly served in the Army National Guard. On August 7, 1971, he was united in marriage to Elaine K. Sterman in Cherokee, IA. He began his career as a farmer before becoming a self-employed construction contractor. Bob retired in 2022. Bob enjoyed his wife’s cooking, golfing, fishing, playing cards, working and morning coffee with the guys. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a man of few words but also loved to laugh and tell jokes. He was very expressive with his raised eyebrows and little wink of an eye.

Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years: Elaine Ehlers of Rockwell City; and 2 children: Amy Toye and husband Chris of Clarinda, IA and Lisa Epperly and fiancé Clint Besaw of Rockwell City. He is also survived by his nieces, nephew, cousins and their families, as well as many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and 3 siblings: Bill Ehlers, Howard Ehlers and Loretta Sick; and niece: Patti Ehlers.