Dr. Robert M. Barnhill

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He led — with integrity, humility and care for others.

Dr. Rob M. Barnhill, 57, of Port Washington, Wisconsin, a beloved husband, father, family member, friend, mentor and respected leader, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, to Robert Barnhill Sr. and Anna Cornelia (née Creech) Barnhill, Rob was raised in Burgaw, where his love for athletics began. His passion for football took root early, as he played at Pender High School before continuing his collegiate career at Lees-McRae College and Methodist College.

Following college, Rob began his coaching career at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, where he also earned his master’s degree. He later earned his doctoral degree from the University of South Dakota, preparing for a lifelong career rooted in servant leadership within higher education.

In 2000, Rob joined Concordia University Wisconsin as the offensive coordinator for the Falcons football program, a role he held for nine seasons. He was later named director of athletics, a position he faithfully served for more than two decades.

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Rob will be remembered for his strong leadership, unwavering commitment to student-athletes and deep dedication to the Concordia community.

As director of athletics, Dr. Barnhill led a remarkable era of growth and expansion. During his tenure, the department added 13 teams and expanded its professional staff, enhancing the daily experience for student-athletes while elevating standards across coaching and support areas. Under his leadership, Concordia teams captured numerous conference, regional and national championships, and many student-athletes advanced to compete — and succeed — at the highest levels.

He also played a significant role in transforming Concordia’s athletic facilities, helping plan and oversee the development of the Sports Fitness Facility, Hall of Fame, Kapco Park, Fitting Field, Catalyst Park, Tomasini Stadium and the Catalyst Training Center.

Rob will be remembered for his strong leadership, unwavering commitment to student-athletes and deep dedication to the Concordia community. More than his accomplishments, he will be remembered for the way he led — with integrity, humility and care for others. He was deeply loved and widely respected, and his impact will live on through the countless lives he touched.

He is survived by his wife Stephanie; his sons, Ty and Caden Barnhill; his father, Robert Barnhill Sr.; his brother, Jeffrey (Lanee) Barnhill; his niece, Hannah (Max) Plafcan; his nephew, Hunter Barnhill; and many other loving relatives, friends and colleagues.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Cornelia.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Christ Church, 13460 N. Port Washington Road, Mequon, Wisconsin. Visitation will begin at 4 p.m. and continue until the time of service.

As his final project at Concordia, Rob was directing all his strength to renovating the fieldhouse lobby. Though he was unable to see its completion, gifts in his memory can be directed to Concordia University Wisconsin to help fulfill his vision for this space. Following his passing, the university has announced plans to name the renovated area “The Dr. Rob Barnhill Lobby” to honor his 25 years of service, leadership, and dedication to Falcon Athletics.

Gifts can be made at the link below.

CUW Falcons Fieldhouse Lobby

The Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington, is honored to serve the Barnhill family. Friends and family may share online condolences at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.