Robert Joseph Elrich

Robert ("Bob") Joseph Elrich, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2026 on his ranch with his devoted wife, Lola, by his side. Born in 1939, in Los Angeles, California, Bob was the son of Joseph and Helen Elrich. He was raised in Downey, California.

In 1963, Bob joined the United States Navy and served his country honorably from 1963 to 1966. He was stationed at the Naval Air Station (NAS) Dallas. While there, he met his beloved wife, Lola, at Arlington State College, now known as the University of Texas at Arlington. Bob and Lola Elrich were married in 1966 in Grand Prairie, Texas. Over the years together, they created many memories raising two children.

In his youth in California, Bob enjoyed surfing and working on hot rods. Once Bob came to Texas, Bob enjoyed camping, hunting, and raising cattle. He always enjoyed reading about history. He was an avid collector. Bob was a friend to all he met and found joy in the simple pleasure of visiting with people about anything and everything. Bob especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and making them laugh.

Bob worked in different capacities, including in the engineering department at General Telephone and for the City of Arlington. At General Telephone, he helped to design the cable and lighting for DFW International Airport. At the City of Arlington, he helped to design the lighting at The Ballpark in Arlington.

Bob is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lola Elrich; his sister, Donna Tullar and niece, Cherie Brebner; and his children, Julie Marley (Julie's husband, Steve) and Robert Elrich, Jr. (Robert's wife, Katherine); and Bob's grandchildren, Madison Marley, Garrett Marley, Parker Marley, Michael Elrich, Zachary Elrich, Nicholas Elrich, and Sam Elrich. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donating to any Parkinson's Disease non-profit organization of your choice.