Robert D. Grobengieser

Robert D. Grobengieser, 94, of Lancaster, passed away on September 16, 2024. 

Born in Chicago, IL, he was the son of the late Robert and Ruth (Luehrs) Grobengieser. Robert (Bob) received his undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Valparaiso University in Indiana. In high school and college, he excelled in football and track and was on the undefeated 1950 Crusaders football team, earning All-American honors. 

Following his graduation, Bob joined the Army and served from 1951-1952. 

He then began his professional career in agriculture which spanned 50 years. He finished his career as a business owner of Keystone Ingredients with his partner Richard Weaver. He served as President of Penn Ag Industries in 2004.  

He devoted time to philanthropic efforts for Friendship Community, Aaron’s Acres, and Trinity Church’s Breakfast Fellowship.  

Bob had a creative eye and a huge love for the arts. In his life, and more so in his retirement, he produced more than 200 amazing paintings and drawings. His favorite subjects were Lancaster, landscapes from his travels, and portraits of friends and family. He also had a profound love of music, especially opera, attending many Metropolitan Opera performances in New York City. 

He loved golf! He played for seven decades with an all-time low score of 80.  

For 60 years Bob was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church. He served on the Vestry and taught Sunday school for many of those years.  

In addition to his wife, Judith, he is survived by sons Rob Grobengieser, (husband of Kim Grobengieser) and Tom Grobengieser; his first wife Janice Grobengieser; step-daughters, Lisa Balakrishnan (wife of Arvindh Balakrishnan), Andrea Brennan (wife of Cory Brennan) and Amy Farrow (wife of Nicholas Farrow). Also surviving are grandchildren Katie Grobengieser, Alison Grobengieser, Ellie Balakrishnan, Zachary Balakrishnan, Marley Brennan, Mae Grobengieser, Leo Grobengieser, Lucy Farrow, August Grobengieser, and Maxwell Farrow.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Andrew Grobengieser and step-daughter, Tracey Neff.  

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 31 South Duke Street, Lancaster, PA 17602 on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 11:00 AM. A visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Interment will follow in the church memorial gardens for the immediate family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Friendship Community or Aaron’s Acres. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit: www.DeBordSnyder.com.