Robert David Eggebeen

Born on April 26, 1935, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, to Joseph and Isabelle Eggebeen, Bob carried the hardworking and water-loving spirit of Lake Michigan with him throughout his long and impactful life.

Bob’s journey of service began with his baptism in the Lutheran Church and led him to Western Theological Seminary. It was there, at a coffee shop across the street, that he met the love of his life, Carol. Their connection was immediate and profound; they were engaged before his graduation, beginning a partnership of faith that would span over 66 years.

Ordained as a minister in the Reformed Church in America (Dutch Reformed), Bob was never one to shy away from a challenge. He was drawn to "fixer-upper" assignments, finding joy in following the Holy Spirit toward the revitalization of struggling congregations. Whether he was breathing new life into youth programs through Young Life or establishing new church plants, Bob viewed every obstacle as an opportunity for redemption and growth.

A lover of the shoreline, Bob spent many years with Carol in Clearwater and Dunedin, Florida, where they enjoyed the proximity to the water that reminded him of their Lake Michigan roots.

Seven years ago, they moved to Raleigh to be closer to their family, residing at Brookdale Senior Living, before Bob’s health required the specialized care of Terra Bella.

In his final hours, Bob was surrounded by the sounds and people he loved most. His family gathered by his side to share a slideshow of a life well-lived, reminiscing over decades of memories. They filled his room with the music of his heritage—polkas on YouTube—and the comfort of the hymn “Jesus Loves Me, This I Know,” ushering him home with the same faith he spent his life sharing with others.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his children, Debbie Halvorsen (Inge) and David Eggebeen (Kelly); eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; and his brother, Thomas Eggebeen, and his wife, Donna.

His legacy lives on in the communities he rebuilt, the family he adored, and the countless lives touched by his ministry.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, June 3, in the Chapel of Mitchell Funeral Home, beginning at 11:00am. Mr. Eggebeen will be interred in Holland, Michigan.

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