On many mornings at UW-Superior, colleagues would hear Julius Erlenbach step into a room with his signature line, “It’s another beautiful day in Superior!” It was more than a catchphrase. For Erlenbach, who led the university for 14 transformative years, it was a philosophy: an insistence on optimism, curiosity and joy, even in the most demanding moments of higher education leadership. 

Erlenbach, who passed away on February 28 at 82, left an imprint on the university that is visible in brick and mortar, in scholarships and programs, and in the lives of those who crossed his path. Yet those closest to him say his greatest legacy was the energy he brought to every endeavor— a blend of brilliance, humor, generosity and a deep appreciation for people. 

Born on January 20, 1944, in Evanston, Illinois, Erlenbach grew up surrounded by music, a passion that would shape both his early career and his personal life. After attending Oberlin College—where he met Rebecca (Becky) Brown, the woman who would become his wife of 55 years—he went on to earn a doctorate from Northwestern University. A gifted French horn player, he began his professional life as a Professor of Music at UW-Stevens Point. His love of performance never waned; in his later years, he delighted his grandchildren with accordion renditions of “Beer Barrel Polka,” “The Clarinet Polka,” and “The Happy Wanderer.” 

But Erlenbach’s talents eventually pulled him into educational leadership. In 1980, he became Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Drake University, later serving as Vice Chancellor at UW-La Crosse. And in 1996, he arrived at UW-Superior as Chancellor—a role that would define a major chapter of the university’s modern history. 

During his tenure, Erlenbach spearheaded a capital and building campaign that reshaped the campus. Swenson Hall and the Yellowjacket Union stand today as prominent reminders of his vision. He retired in 2010, remembered not only for the structures he helped build but for the culture of collaboration and aspiration he championed. 

Even after retirement, Erlenbach remained a regular presence in the UW-Superior community. He attended events, kept in touch with colleagues and alumni, and supported student scholarships and university initiatives. Those who knew him say he took special pride in encouraging young people to chase their ambitions — a continuation of the mentoring spirit he carried throughout his career. 

Outside academia, Erlenbach lived life expansively. He relished classical music, mysteries, Shakespeare, gourmet cuisine, and travel—especially the journeys he shared with Becky. Together, they explored six continents, whether through UW-Superior alumni groups, adventures with close friends, or multigenerational trips with their children. In recent years, family gatherings in Germany, Scotland, and across the United States became treasured traditions. 

At home, he nurtured his love of German language, tended rose bushes, and practiced the forms of his karate black belt. Friends describe him as someone who approached every passion with both enthusiasm and intention. 

Erlenbach is survived by Rebecca; their children, Elisa Johanna Erlenbach Maas (Brian Maas) of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania; Erika Margaret Erlenbach (David Kostmayer) of Huntersville, North Carolina; and Julius Elton Erlenbach (Carla) of Mankato, Minnesota; his sister, Johanna Erlenbach of Flat Rock, North Carolina; and grandchildren Caleb, Audrey, Elena, and Asher. He also leaves behind cherished relatives, treasured friends, and a beloved collection of grandpets. 

The family invites those wishing to honor his memory to support the Erlenbach Scholarship Fund through the UW-Superior Alumni and Friends Foundation or to contribute to a charity meaningful to them. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

For those who knew him, Julius Erlenbach will be remembered as a leader, a mentor, a musician, a traveler, and a man who believed wholeheartedly in the beauty of each day—especially in Superior.