BELLA VISTA — Robert L. (Bob) Svehla,

87, Bella Vista, Ark., died Dec. 30, 2020, at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Ark. He was born May 13, 1933, in Friend, Neb., to Frances G. and John B. Svehla.

He married Fern Gieselman on April 30, 1960, in Bloomfield, Neb.

A graduate of Friend High School, Bob received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Doane College and earned advanced degrees from the University of Montana-Missoula and Xavier University. He served in the Army in Korea.

His professional life began as a systems analyst in aerospace and at Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio. The prospect of bringing new technologies to municipal government brought Bob to Independence, Mo. He spent the next 22 years serving the public in city government, including stints as the city manager of both Independence, Mo., and Coon Rapids, Minn.

After retiring to Bella Vista, Ark., in 1996, he contributed his interest and expertise to the community by serving on the Property Owners Association board and was a leading proponent for the incorporation of the city.

Bob had a deep personal relationship with his Lord and was an active member of the Bella Vista Lutheran Church. He served on the

board of directors and was a Stephen minister and a member of the Pastoral Care team.

Bob was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Fern Svehla of Bella Vista; children Catherine Svehla of Twentynine Palms, Calif., and Paul Svehla (Barbara) of Greensboro, N.C.; and grandchildren Sara and Kevin Svehla of Raleigh, N.C.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Ramon, Bernard and Donald.

Memorial contributions may be made to the NW Arkansas Food Bank, www.nwafoodbank.org or the Scholarship Fund at Bella Vista Lutheran Church. Condolences may be expressed at www.funeralmation.com.