Rev. Robert Lovering's Obituary
Rev. Robert Lee Lovering
Waupaca, WI age 80 – passed away unexpectedly on December 14, 2008, surrounded by family. He was born on July 14, 1928 in Minneapolis, MN, the son of Lee and Ida (Murk) Lovering. He married Janice Ferrin on August 5, 1949. They enjoyed 59 years together and were blessed with two children, Daniel and Leanne. Bob had polio at 18 years of age and spent 62 years in a wheelchair. His accomplishments were extraordinary. Bob became an ordained minister, graduating cum laude from Northwestern College in Roseville, MN, having studied psychology, sociology, and theology. He held positions with three health agencies in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and worked 20 years with the Christian League for the Handicapped out of Walworth, WI. In 1973 Bob and Janice moved to Phoenix, AZ where he continued his life long vocation of counseling persons with disabilities, their families and friends. This ministry was non-profit, supported by churches and friends. He was in touch with people all over the world through the internet. He also authored two books on coping with disability. He drove, repaired, and restored many cars. He did most all household repairs, including wiring, drywall, flooring, and painting, some of this done from a motorized lift he built to carry him upward to whatever level he needed to be. Bob also enjoyed electronics and was a graduate of the DeVry Institute of Technology. He received countless awards and recognition for his accomplishments. He had a natural ear for music and played many instruments, especially loving his saxophone. He had also sung in quartets. Bob is survived by his loving wife; Janice, son; Daniel, daughter; Leanne (David) Edwards, Sr., grandson; David Edwards, Jr., niece; Virginia Arneson, great nephew; Lee Patkus, brother-in-law; John (Judy) Ferrin, and countless other friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters; Edythe Arneson and Marian Lovering. A celebration of his life will be held at Bethany Home in Waupaca, WI on Monday, December 22, 2008 at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, please give to your church, Bethany Home of Waupaca, WI, the Salvation Army, or any place you are confident your money will aid someone else. Bob’s last months were at Bethany Home where he received the utmost in wonderful, loving care. Now his address is Heaven, and we look forward to a grand reunion. “WELL DONE MY GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT.” The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca, WI assisted the family with arrangements.
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