Robert Allen Sterud

Robert A. "Bob" Sterud, Sr., 74, passed away early Friday morning January 15th, 2021, due to complications from vascular dementia. He is survived by his ex-wife, Francine Sterud, son, Rob Sterud (Kristen Bell), daughter Sommer Sterud (Johnny DiLoretto) all of Columbus, OH, two brothers Kim and Brian Sterud, of Phoenix, AZ, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by brothers Gary and Donald, and sister Christine.

One of six children, Bob was born August 18, 1946 to Arnold and LaVerne (Kittelson) Sterud in Minot, North Dakota. He graduated from Minot High School in 1964 before attending the University of North Dakota. At a slight 5'6 and 155 pounds, Robert was a quarterback for the University of North Dakota football team, where he also enlisted in the Army. After college, Bob served in Vietnam from 1969-1971 and earned numerous commendations including a Bronze Star Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, rising to the rank of Captain. Bob would fondly recount serving in the war at the same time as his late brother, Gary Sterud, though they were in different companies. He was also proud to have been an aide to future Secretary of State General Alexander Haig during his service. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1976.

Bob worked a few different jobs over the years, ultimately retiring from Lubrizol Corp. in Wilmington, MA in 2010. Upon retirement, Bob moved to Columbus, OH to be closer to his family. He loved spending time with his kids, watching football (Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota Vikings, North Dakota State Bison), and discussing anything related to the great state of North Dakota. He also enjoyed a cold Miller High Life or two at Johnnie's Glenn Ave. Grill and loved to tell stories to anyone who'd listen to him. Although he couldn't play an instrument, he'd tell you that he was in the band for UND's hockey team with the responsibility of carrying the beer for the team in his "tuba case". His life was full of rich moments and stories like this.

Music was a great comfort to Bob throughout his life. He sang in choirs as a young man. Near the end, when he had trouble even speaking, music could enliven him. He would sing Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson songs word-for-word even as his ability to remember daily tasks failed. We'll miss you, Dad. Uff da.

There will be no funeral service, however a celebration of life will be held later in the year once it is safer to gather. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America at https://vva.org/donate/, to your local VFW/American Legion, or to the Alzheimer's Association at https://alz.org/donate . To send condolences or share a special memory of Bob with his family, please visit www.schoedinger.com.