Robert Arthur Granlund

Robert (Bob) Arthur Granlund, 83, December 25, 1931 – December 20, 2015 of New Bern, NC. He was born in Dayton, Ohio to Arthur A. and Esther S. Granlund. In 1949 he graduated from Parker Co-0p School. Before entering the US Marine Corps in 1950 he attended submarine school in New London, CT. He was commissioned and attained the rank of Captain, flying a variety of planes; the corsair being his favorite. After serving his country for many years, he entered civilian life working for Manufacturer’s Equipment. But aviation ran deep in his blood, so he took positions with Illinois Central and later Anchor Hocking as an executive pilot. From 1970 to 1987 he worked for the Federal Aviation Administration in positions of air traffic controller and flow controller at the Washington Center in Leesburg, VA.

While living in Leesburg he was a coach and past President of the Central Loudoun Little League Football Association. He also was an umpire for the Loudoun Baseball Association. He attended Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and served as a councilman. After retiring to New Bern he joined the Southern Gentlemen Barbershop Chorus of New Bern and The Barbershop Harmony Brigade starting another career singing bass in several quartets. He also made appearances in several shows for the New Bern Civic Theatre. He was a member of Quaker Neck Country Club and served as a past President of the Board.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years Eliza Granlund and four sons, Steven R. Granlund of Leesburg, VA; Michael A. Granlund (Renee) of Hobe Sound, FL; Carl B. Granlund of Boynton Beach, FL; Robert R. Granlund of Diamondhead, MS; grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was predeceased by a son, Kevin E. Granlund, a daughter, Cathy L. Granlund and a granddaughter, Krystle D. Granlund.

Even though Bob had been in poor health for the past three years, his life was a journey that he lived to the fullest. We all miss him dearly and celebrate 83 years lived as God intended.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Southern Gentlemen Chorus for the “Bob Granlund Memorial Fund”, PO Box 14091, New Bern, NC 28562. A memorial service will be held at Cotten Funeral Home in New Bern at 11AM on Saturday Jan. 9. The family will receive friends at 10AM.