Robert Humberg

Robert D. “Bob” Humberg, 96, of St. Joseph, passed away Tuesday, August 10, 2021 at Caretel Inns of St. Joseph. Bob was born on September 16, 1924, in Benton Harbor, to Bruno and Grace (Fisher) Humberg. At the early age of 15, Bob proved himself to be a hard worker, committing himself to the community of St. Joseph/Benton Harbor with many jobs. He drove the steam engine in 1939 at The House of David, earning $8.00 a week. As a story teller, Bob would tell endless stories about the steam engines and how they were used to pull excursion trains for the public. He talked about the ice cream and cones which were made daily at the park. He also worked at The Little Super grocery store, Silver Beach Amusement Park, the local bowling alley and many other establishments in St. Joseph. Bob always enjoyed his work as he did life. He was a great entertainer and included food, drinks, conversation and possibly a sports game. He loved people and always wanted to know about them. He graduated from St. Joseph High School on June 8, 1943, and then enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving for three years before being honorably discharged. During his service, Bob received AIRCREW INSIGNIA – 3 stars, ASIATIC PACIFIC Area Ribbon – 1 star, AMERICAN AREA Ribbon, AIR MEDAL, and WORLD WAR II Victory Ribbon. Bob received his second citation and air medal from the President of the United States as aviation radio man 2-c, USNR, for service of meritorious achievements in aerial flight during operations against the enemy forces in the western Pacific area from May 16 to July 8, 1945. Completing 15 missions during this period, Bob contributed materially to the success of his squadron and his gallant devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval service. He was discharged from the navy in February of 1946 after three years of service. Once discharged and eager to learn, he continued his education at Western Michigan College (now Western Michigan University), graduating in 1950, with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Mathematics. He then joined Whirlpool Corporation in 1950 as a production auditor. With over 33 years of service, he retired in 1984 as a Senior Buyer. In his free time, Bob enjoyed traveling, playing golf, handball, fishing, hunting and singing in The Barber Shop Quartette. Bob is well known for entertaining the staff and residents at Caretel Inns with his songs. Bob was a part of Babe’s Golf League, the Whirlpool Retirees’ Group, and was a passionate member of and contributor to the YMCA. His convertible car was used in the Blossomtime Parade for several years. He loved his church, Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Joseph, and was baptized by Pastor Louis Neuchterlein. Bob remained an active member and leader. Bob is survived by cousins Jean, Mike, Pat, Ron, Frances, Sandra, and Scott as well as his dear friend Joyce Wood. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bruno and Grace Humberg, sister Doris Miller and nephew Jeffrey Miller. A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, St. Joseph, on Friday, August 20, at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow at the church. A gravesite service at Riverview Cemetery with military honors will take place on Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at 10AM. A private Celebration of Life ceremony will be held for residents and staff of Caretel Inns only at Caretel Inns, St. Joseph. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 to recognize Bob’s amazing team of nurses, counselors, music therapists, and spiritual counselors. They lovingly were a part of Bob’s journey. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Arrangements are being entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI.