Robert E. Lewis, age 81, of Austin, died Tuesday, June 21,  2011 at Sacred Heart Care Center.        Bob was born April 18, 1930 in Austin  to Palmer and Viola (Handke) Lewis.  He graduated from Austin  High School in 1948 and then went on to Austin Vocational School  for welding.  On May 1, 1951 he married Iris Helebrant in  Austin.  She preceded him in death on June 26,  2005.         Bob served in the United States Air  Force from 1950 to 1954.  He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran  Church, the American Legion and the Austin Senior Center.  He  enjoyed reading, playing cards, golfing, time with friends and  family, and his cat, Willie.        Survivors include three children,  Bobbe (Mike) Bartley, Brookings, SD, Todd (Jean) Lewis, Dothan, AL,  Cory Lewis, Rochester, MN; eight grandchildren; six great  grandchildren; sister, Barbara Flaherty, Austin, MN.        In addition to his wife, he is  preceded in death by his parents; son, Terry Lewis; sisters, Betty  Duffy and Dorothy Rideout.        Memorial services will be held 1:00  pm on Friday, July 1, 2011 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Rev.  Ron Barnett officiating.  Friends may call one hour before the  service at the church on Friday.  Military rites will be by  American Legion Post #91.  Interment will be in Oakwood  Cemetery.        Arrangements by Mayer Funeral  Home.
  
   
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