Robert Behrens

Robert Behrens, born on May 26, 1939, died peacefully on June 6th, 2023 at Belmont Manor. Bob was raised in Lake Forest, Illinois.

Bob's high school years at Lake Forest High School were filled with accomplishments and camaraderie. He was an honors student and demonstrated his athletic prowess as a football player. His agility and skill led him to the tumbling team, where he delighted audiences with his acrobatic abilities. Bob also played saxophone in a dance band known as the "Seventeens." His dedication to personal growth and service to others was exemplified when Bob achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. His discipline, sportsmanship, and perseverance truly shone during these years.

After completing high school, Bob pursued his undergraduate studies at Antioch College which was a pivotal time of intellectual exploration and personal growth. Surrounded by a vibrant academic community, he developed an understanding of social issues and a passion for making the world better.

Driven to effect change on a larger scale, Bob pursued a master's degree in social work at Simmons University. With compassion as his guiding force, Bob embarked on a career with the Department of Mental Retardation. He focused on helping long-term residents of large institutions like Medfield and Wrentham State Hospitals move into the community and become more independent and engaged in the world.

Bob's curiosity led him to embrace technology, where he found delight in tinkering with ham radio, electronics and computers. His computer became a canvas for exploration, a part-time job tutoring blind students remotely (years before Zoom!) and a testament to his adaptability in an interconnected world. He also enjoyed hiking and camping with Martha, playing improvisational music on his organ, and enjoying a big ole bag of popcorn on the couch watching TV.

Beyond professional achievements and hobbies, Bob's true source of joy and fulfillment was his family. Bob took tremendous pride in his three children, Jeff, David, and Kim. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Martha, and a committed stepfather to PJ, Danny, Tammy, and Jennifer. Bob is also survived by his brothers Larry (Marty) and Tom (Siria).

Bob was a kind, quiet, happy and at times eccentric man (in a good way) who always had a smile to give and let little bother him. One of his regular responses to, "How are you doing?" was "Can't complain!" - which was true. He rarely complained! He will be missed by all who knew and loved him, but as he would often say: "C'est la vie."

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory can be made to Pathway to Possible in Newton, MA - the agency that runs the house where Kim lives. https://pathway2possible.org/

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert Behrens, please visit our floral store.