Robert Leonard Erbes

Robert L. Erbes—beloved father, grandfather, and Luella’s devoted husband of sixty-six years—passed away peacefully on January 28, 2021 at age 86. A lifelong musician and educator, Bob leaves an enduring legacy as a professor emeritus of music and music education at Michigan State University where he taught several generations of band directors from 1971 to 1997. He also served as director of MSU’s Music for Children and Summer Youth Music programs. As a volunteer, he contributed his artistic talents as a conductor, arranger, and performer to many organizations including Okemos Community Church and the Meridian community band and chamber ensemble. He was most recently a member of People’s Church in East Lansing.

Bob and Lu were high school sweethearts who shared the same passion and talent for music. In their newlywed years, Bob served with the Army in Germany where he performed in the U.S. Army band. Later in life, their love of Europe took them back for many visits to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. They particularly enjoyed hiking among the wildflowers in the Austrian Alps and visiting Salzburg.

Along with his wife Lu and his brother Fred, Bob is survived by his children LuAnn (Tom), Mark (Annette), and Scott (Stephanie), to whom he served as a model of kindness and generosity towards others. He is also survived by his grandchildren Lauren (Matt), Megan (Sue), Matthew (Nikki), Nina, and Sam.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family gratefully requests that memorials please be directed to Michigan State University’s Community Music School in East Lansing via Michigan State University, College of Music Advancement, attention Rebecca Surian, 333 W. Circle Drive #102, East Lansing, MI 48824. Please note that donations are in memory of Robert Erbes for the Community Music School, East Lansing.

www.freep.com