Robert “Bob” James Eiber

Bob will be deeply missed as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Known for his positivity and easygoing nature, he had the kind of quiet humor and patience that served him well—especially when navigating life with his spirited wife, Carol. Bob cherished time with his family, always ready with a big smile, a hearty laugh, and a glass of wine in hand. Very bright, but always modest, he passed on his wisdom and humility to his children and grandchildren.

He was an avid sailor, skier, and cyclist, still riding his e-bike even after he turned 91. He and Carol were often spotted cruising around Columbus on their tandem bike. A quiet Ohio State fan—despite being married for 65 years to an avid U of M alum—Bob was also a devoted, long-time member of Upper Arlington Lutheran Church. He lived with joy, grace, and faith—confident in his final destination.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Janet Yaroma (née Eiber), and grandson, Alexander Eiber Arldt. He is survived by his wife, Carol Eiber (née Rankin); his children, Jeff Eiber (spouse Keven Eiber), and Jill Arldt (née Eiber, spouse Brian Arldt); and his grandchildren, Calvin Eiber, Emery Eiber, and Abby Eiber Arldt.

Bob graduated from Euclid High School in 1951, Case Institute of Technology with a B.S. in Civil Engineering in 1955, and an M.S. in Structural Engineering in 1958. Bob worked as an oil and gas pipeline research engineer at Battelle Memorial Institute from 1959 to the early ’90s, where he authored numerous technical papers and made meaningful contributions to the advancement of testing methods in his field. Taking retirement as a suggestion, Bob continued to share his expertise through consulting well into his 80s. As a sought-after pipeline failure expert, his work took him around the world—though he remained characteristically humble about the impact he made. For Bob, it never felt like work because he genuinely loved what he did. For him, in life, it was always about the adventure, not the glory.

A memorial service will be held on July 11, 2025 at 2:00 pm with reception immediately following at Upper Arlington Lutheran Church, Mill Run Campus (3500 Mill Run Drive Hilliard, OH 43026). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob's name to Upper Arlington Lutheran Church.