Obituary of Robert "Bob" E. Lehmann

Robert E. "Bob" Lehmann, 81, of Girard, IL, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Bob was born on October 6, 1943, in Carlinville, IL, the son of Albert J. and Anita M. (Schmidt) Lehmann. He was a proud graduate of Girard High School, Class of 1961. On June 29, 1963, he married Sue Johnson at New Hope Methodist Church. They shared many wonderful years together until her passing on October 3, 1996. He later found love again and married Betty Bristow Bridges on August 28, 1999. A lifelong farmer in the Girard and Carlinville area, Bob was also a Pioneer Seed dealer, building strong relationships with fellow farmers and supporting local agriculture. Beyond his work in farming, he was deeply committed to serving his community. Bob dedicated 38 years to the MJM Electric Cooperative Board, where he also served as board president for many years. He was a valued member of the Wabash Valley Power Alliance Board for 20 years. Additionally, he was a longtime member and president of the Girard School Board. His commitment to service left a lasting impact on the community he loved. Above all, Bob cherished his family. Whether it was cheering on loved ones at sporting events or celebrating life’s biggest milestones, he was always present with unwavering support and love. He found great joy in sharing his passion for farming, especially during combine rides with his grandson, Kyle. His weekly "Grandpa Date Night" with his granddaughter was a tradition he treasured. Bob also loved working on woodworking projects alongside his children and son-in-law, creating lasting memories with each piece. One of his greatest joys was welcoming and holding his newest great-granddaughter. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Sue Johnson Lehmann, his brother, Dale W. Lehmann, his sister-in-law, Elizabeth Ann Lehmann, and a nephew. He is survived by his loving wife, Betty Lehmann of Nilwood, IL; daughter, Tresa (Ed) Cerven of Girard, IL; son, Scot (Michelle) Lehmann of Peoria, IL; and grandchildren, Brittney (Ben) Fredbloom, Kaitlyn (Aaron) Unsicker, Meghan Lehmann, and Lauren Lehmann. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Wesley, Sutton, Harper, and Hadley. Additionally, he is survived by his stepchildren: Cyndi (Kerry) Miller, Craig (Laura) Bridges, Curt Bridges, and Chris (Kathy) Bridges, along with nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Carlinville United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Carlinville United Methodist Church, officiated by Darrin Daugherty. Burial will follow at Mayfield Memorial Park Cemetery in Carlinville. Memorial contributions may be made to Girard Fire and Rescue in Bob’s honor. Arrangements are entrusted to Davis-Anderson Funeral Homes, Ltd., Girard.