Robert L. Rehfeld, 76, of Galena, IL, passed away, on Saturday, August 6, 2016, at Midwest Medical Center, in Galena.

Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of "Bob's" life at 4 P/M, on Wednesday, August 10, 2016, at First Presbyterian Church, in Galena, with Rev. Jim McCrea officiating.

Visitation will be from 3 P/M to 4 P/M, on Wednesday, at the church. Burial will be at 10:30 A/M, on Thursday, August 11, 2016, at Oakland Cemetery, in Freeport, IL.

The Miller & Steinke Funeral Home, in Galena, is in charge of arrangements.

Bob was born June 15, 1940, in Freeport, the son of Floyd E. and LaFerne M. Rehfeld. He graduated from Aquin High School, in Freeport, in 1959, and then earned a B.S. in Elementary Education at WSU/ Platteville, WI, graduating in 1965. He went on to earn two (2) master's degrees in Education Guidance and Counseling from Loras College, in Dubuque, in 1969.

Bob, known as "Mr. R." by his students, was a charismatic teacher who inspired his students with his creativity, passion, and nurturing. He taught for 33 years at Table Mound Elementary School, in Dubuque, teaching 6th grade and ending his career in 4th. He incorporated educational, yet fun projects into his pedagogy to engage his students. Most notably, he founded Table Mound's "Mock Convention" that is held before the Iowa Caucuses - a tradition that endures today. Bob was a counselor in addition to being a teacher, and he used his skills to help patients at Mercy Hospital, in Dubuque. After retirement, Bob volunteered his counseling skills and became a court appointed mediator at the Dubuque County Courthouse.

Bob married Mary Ames, of Dubuque, in 1964, and together they raised three (3) children. After their divorce in 1981, Bob relocated from Dubuque to Galena, where he lived out his days. Bob was a devoted and active member of the First Presbyterian Church, of Galena, and was known for his inspirational talks to the congregation called "Five minutes with Elder Bob". He enjoyed doing creative projects, having meaningful conversations, caring for animals, sending gifts to loved ones, and helping others. He was a loyal son, father, and friend who will be greatly missed.

Surviving are three (3) children, Eric Rehfeld, of Austin, TX, Steve Rehfeld, of San Antonio, TX, Rebecca Springer, of West Sacramento, CA; and one (1) grandson, Seth Rehfeld Springer, of West Sacramento, CA.

Bob's family would like to "sincerely thank" Nancy Campbell, as well as Jim Lander, and the Rev. Jim McCrea, for their unyielding friendship and support to Bob throughout the remainder of his life.

Online condolences may be left at www.millerfhed.com