Robert Allen Mortensen was born July 24, 1931, in Dolliver, Iowa and died peacefully at the age of 91 on Feb. 4th, 2023. He was the son of Adolph and Dina (Hanson) Mortensen of Swea City. Robert attended Swea City public school and graduated in 1951. In May 1952 Robert (Bob) enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Bermuda. He was part of the Honor Guard for Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Bermuda and for the G4 Western Summit with President Eisenhower. He was honorably discharged in 1954.
July 24, 1931 – February 4, 2023
On October 9, 1952, Robert was united in marriage to Karen Vogel. This union was blessed with 4 children: Karol, Robin, Tom, and Terri.
Bob was blessed with many talents; most of his career he was well known for his mechanical abilities and his dedication and service to his family and community. Bob worked for his parents’ feed business, Mort-O-Dine Feed and Mortensen Case Implement business before working as a mechanic for Ford Motor until his retirement in 1991. At that time they began wintering in Apache Junction, AZ until this past year. He served as a member of the Swea City Fire Department for 54 years with 15 years as the Fire Chief. Bob was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Swea City and sang in the choir for several years. He was actively involved with the Masons, Shriners, and the American Legion.
During free time over the years, he enjoyed camping, golfing, watching sports, motorcycle riding, dirt biking in the desert and taking up stained glass art. He was known for his warm, friendly smile, gentle nature and willingness to always lend a hand to anyone. Most importantly, was his love of family and the time he was able to spend with them.
Left to cherish his memory include his wife of over 70 years, Karen Mortensen of Swea City, daughters Karol Mortensen (Liz) of Gold Canyon, Az. Robin Arndorfer (Richard) of Bancroft, IA. son Tom Mortensen (Julie) of Gold Canyon, AZ, daughter Terri Jergenson (Jeff) of Algona, IA. grandchildren – Brent (Lindsay), Bryan (Laura), Bradley, & Burke (Carrie) Arndorfer, Dustin (Laci) Mortensen & Paige (Brandon) Baade. Step-grandchildren Jacob (Marisa) Jergenson, Landon, Nolan & Bronson Jergenson. Great Grandchildren – Delaney, Vayda, Ruby, Fiona & Jade Arndorfer, Lincoln & Chevelle Baade, Hayden, Savannah & Bennett Mortensen, Jackson & Mackenzie Jergenson. Brother Don Mortensen (Iva) of Fairmont, Mn., Sisters Ida Mae Erickson of Fairmont, Mn., and Ruth Lazar of Phoenix, Az., brother in law Bill Vogel, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents Adolph and Dina Mortensen, brothers Dean, Vern, Ralph, sister Irene Rhoda, father & mother in law D.C. and Lucille Vogel and various in laws.
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