Robert E. Lewis, 81, of Austin, died Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at Sacred Heart Care Center.

Bob was born April 18, 1930, in Austin to Palmer and Viola (Handke) Lewis. He graduated from Austin High School in 1948 and then went on to Austin Vocational School for welding. On May 1, 1951, he married Iris Helebrant in Austin. She preceded him in death on June 26, 2005.

Bob served in the Air Force from 1950 to 1954. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the American Legion and the Austin Senior Center. He enjoyed reading, playing cards, golfing, time with friends and family, and his cat, Willie.

Survivors include three children, Bobbe (Mike) Bartley of Brookings, S.D., Todd (Jean) Lewis of Dothan, Ala., Cory Lewis of Rochester, Minn.; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister, Barbara Flaherty of Austin.

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his parents; son, Terry Lewis; sisters, Betty Duffy and Dorothy Rideout.

Memorial services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, July 1, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Military rites will be by American Legion Post 91. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.