Gustav Robert Lofgren Jr.

Gustav Robert Lofgren Jr., known as Bob by most, arrived in Heaven on February 16th, 2025, at the age of 92. He led a life of devotion to his family and friends. He served more than 30 years in the United States Navy as a Seabee, where he retired as a Captain. If asked, Bob would likely say that he never felt that he worked a day in his life, as he truly enjoyed what he did. Bob wore a smile on his face every day, which is undoubtedly still worn by him in Heaven.

The third of four children, Bob was born in Hinsdale, Illinois on June 9th, 1932, to Gustav Robert Lofgren Sr. and Edith Cary Lofgren (Oberg). He was proud of his Swedish heritage and kept family traditions and memories alive throughout his life. Those traditions, and his legacy, will be carried on by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Bob attended Hinsdale High School and graduated in 1950. He often spoke of the fond memories he made, including raising bees his senior year, and encouraged his grandchildren to enjoy their time in high school the way he did. Post graduation, he attended North Park College and completed his mechanical engineering degree at the University of Illinois. He was a member of the Tau Beta Pi honor society, graduating in the top fifth of his class. Bob later attended Northwestern University, earning a Master of Science degree in physics. He continued his education at the University of Arizona, pursuing a degree in atmospheric science.

Bob met the love of his life, Carol Elaine Johnson, while attending North Park College. They wed in the Covenant Congregational Church on June 25th, 1960, and eventually welcomed three daughters, Valerie (Jim), Victoria and Linnea. The couple moved to Peterborough, New Hampshire where Bob worked as a high school physics and chemistry teacher. Following that, they moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where Bob taught physics at Purdue University. The family eventually settled in Tucson, Arizona in 1966. While in Tucson, Bob worked in the Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research at the University of Arizona until he retired in 1996. During his time at the U of A, Bob opened his home to students from across the world, creating many life-long friendships. In return, these family friends welcomed him and his family to their homes in China, Germany, Italy, Mauritius and various other countries.

Bob loved to travel and chose to spend his retirement doing so. Whether it was visiting his daughters and grandchildren in Texas and Illinois, or visiting friends across the world, he was always on the go. Affectionately known as Papa to his grandkids, he took them all to Washington, D.C. when they were in 5th grade. He also traveled with them to Europe and South America. Besides spending time with family and traveling the world, Bob enjoyed retreating to his cabin on Mount Lemmon. He also enjoyed taking leisurely 10-plus mile bike rides well into his 70s, which turned into trike rides in his 80s. He remained active with the Swedish Lutheran church, Young Life, Vasa, YMCA, Tucson Meet Yourself, and numerous other clubs and organizations.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and wife. He is survived by his daughters, Valerie (Jim), Victoria, and Linnea; grandchildren, Corey (Carolina), Nicole, Chris, Harley (Robert), Fendi, Austin (Jensen), Brandon (Lindsey) and Colton; great-grandchildren, Matteo, Demetrio (Corey) and Saleen (Harley). Bob enriched the lives of everyone he met and wished nothing but happiness and wellbeing unto others. He will be immensely missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the YMCA of Tucson by visiting the YMCA of Southern Arizona website (https://tucsonymca.org) or by contacting RJ Bergman at 520-429-3904.