Robert L. “Bob” Svehla, 87, Bella Vista, Arkansas., died Dec. 30, 2020, at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas. He was born May 13, 1933, in Friend, to Frances G. and John B. Svehla.
He married Fern Gieselman on April 30, 1960, in Bloomfield.
A graduate of Friend High School, Bob received a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Doane College and earned advanced degrees from the University of Montana- Missoula and Xavier University. He served in the Army in Korea. His professional life began as a systems analyst in aerospace and at Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio.
The prospect of bringing new technologies to municipal government brought Bob to Independence, Missouri. He spent the next 22 years serving the public in city government, including stints as the city manager of both Independence and Coon Rapids, Minnesota. After retiring to Bella Vista in 1996, he contributed his interest and expertise to the community by serving on the POA board, and was a leading proponent for the incorporation of the city.
Bob had a deep personal relationship with his Lord and was an active member of the Bella Vista Lutheran Church. He served on the board of directors and was a Stephen Minister and a member of the Pastoral Care team.
Bob was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Fern Svehla of Bella Vista, children, Catherine Svehla of Twentynine Palms, California, Paul Svehla (Barbara) of Greensboro, North Carolina; and grandchildren, Sara and Kevin Svehla of Raleigh, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Ramon, Bernard and Donald.
No funeral services are planned at this time. Memorial contributions are suggested to the NW Arkansas Food Bank at https://www.nwafoodbank.org or the scholarship fund at Bella Vista Lutheran Church.
