Robert “Bob” Harold Derr, age 88, of Austin, died Aug. 21, 2009 at his home following a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born Feb. 4, 1921 to Jacob and Nellie (Hilke) Derr in Chester, Iowa, where he grew up and graduated from high school. Bob was in the Army during World War II, stationed for two years in Iran and two years in Europe. Very proud of serving his country, he was honorably discharged on Nov. 3, 1945.  After moving to Austin, he married Norma Jean Holzer on Nov. 30, 1946 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church. 
As a young man, Robert was a mechanic and tire salesman. Later he maintained vehicles for the City of Austin street crews for 20 years. He continued selling tires for 40 years at Wold Tire Service in St. Ansgar. A tire salesman for sixty years, Robert was often referred to as “Honest Bob.” A member of Queen of Angels Catholic Church, the American Legion and VFW, Bob was devoted to his wife.  
Family members, especially his grandchildren, were very important to Robert. He loved watching all sports on television, was an avid fisherman and loved to read. He loved all animals, especially his feline friend, Satchell, and liked to play cards.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Norma Jean, Austin; one daughter, Debra Jean Bure, Austin; sister, Thelma Kolstad of Chicago, Illinois; three grandchildren, Adrian (Pam) Wagner, Eagan, Kira Wagner, Minneapolis, Josie (Brenda) Bure, Rapid City, South Dakota; five great grandchildren, Kylie, Benjamin, Emily, Makayla and April. 
He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and three sisters.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Aug. 25, 2009 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Father John Traufler officiating.  Friends may call at the Worlein Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24 and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery, Austin. American Legion Post 91 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1216 are in charge of military rites.