Robert William Luehr

   Racine- Mr. Robert “Rusty” Luehr, 83, passed away at Manor Care in Kenosha on Tuesday, June 26, 2012.

   He was born in West Allis on September 9, 1928 to the late Robert and Rosalia (nee: Stark) Luehr, Sr. Upon graduating from Milwaukee Washington High School, he was an civilian apprentice at the Hunters Point Navy Shipyard in San Francisco, then served his nation for three years with the U.S. Army.  He would later receive a degree in pharmacy under the GI Bill from U.W. Madison.

   On September 23, 1950, he married the former Jean M. Tilton at Zion Lutheran Church in South Milwaukee. The Luehrs lived and worked in San Francisco, Muskego, Adams-Friendship and Elroy before settling in Racine in 1979.  He worked for Jerome Drugs in Muskego, the medical clinic in Adams-Friendship and owned The Apothecary in Elroy from 1970 to 1978. After selling the store in Elroy, the Luehrs traveled in a fifth-wheel recreational vehicle for a year before coming to Racine. He worked as pharmacist and manager of the pharmacy at the former Kmart on Byrd Ave. until taking a medical retirement in 1982. 

   In addition to being a pharmacist, he sang in several church choirs and worked as a church secretary for Good Shepherd and Messiah Lutheran churches. He enjoyed model railroading, crossword puzzles, golfing, reading the Bible, old-time radio shows and classical music.  However, Bob was happiest when he was in the presence of his family, especially his grandchildren. 

   He is survived by his wife Jean; his son and daughter-in-law, Robb and Laura Luehr and his grandchildren, Andrew, Travis and Devin, all of Racine.  Bob was preceded in death by his dear son, Rick Luehr, on August 12, 2010.

  Family and Friends are invited to gather at Mount Pleasant Lutheran Church (1700 S. Green Bay Rd.) on Monday, July 2, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. for the celebration of Bob’s life and funeral service with Rev. David Echelbarger officiating.  There will be a visitation in the church on Monday from 4-6 p.m.