Remembering Robert Tollefson
Tollefson, professor emeritus, taught religion and philosophy at Buena Vista College for 32 years. His tenure spanned three decades and three Buena Vista presidents.
Rev. Dr. Robert “Bob” Tollefson, former Buena Vista College (BVC) professor of religion and philosophy, passed away in Storm Lake on Thursday, Sept. 6. He was 91. A Celebration of Life will take place on Monday, Sept. 17 at 11 a.m. in Schaller Memorial Chapel on the campus of Buena Vista University.
Tollefson’s tenure spanned three decades and three Buena Vista presidents. He received a bachelor of science from Michigan Technological University, bachelor of divinity and master of theology degrees from the Princeton Theological seminary, followed by a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa. He began his career at BVC in 1960 as an assistant professor of religion and philosophy, where he eventually became the chairperson of the Division of Religion and Philosophy before retiring in 1992.
An annual lecture series, named the Robert and Barbara Tollefson Reformed Theology Lectureship, began in 1992 in recognition of their contributions to BVU and the Presbyterian Church and serves as an opportunity for the community to hear from renowned scholars in the reformed field of study. Their children Rebecca, Elizabeth, Priscilla, and Jeff; the BVU community; Prospect Hill Presbytery; and many friends joined together to create the lecture series in their honor. In 1994, the Order of Cumberland and Tollefson was established and is named for Tollefson and Dr. William H. Cumberland, professor emeritus of history. The honor is reserved for faculty members who have given exceptional service to the University.
Among many other honors, Tollefson was selected to appear in the 1970 edition of Outstanding Educators of America based on his civic and professional achievements. The program was designed to recognize and honor those who have distinguished themselves by exceptional service, achievements, and leadership in education. He also served as advisor of Esprit De Corps, BVC’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes, moderator of the Synod of Lakes and Prairies of the United Presbyterian Church, and coordinated World Population Day events at BVC. Tollefson was a member of the American Society of Church History; the American Academy of Religion; the Society for the History of Technology; and the Institute of Society, Ethics and the Life Sciences. He will be greatly missed by former and current BVU faculty and staff, alumni, and the Storm Lake community.