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A Legacy of Quiet Strength

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My Friend Bob entered eternal life with peace, surrounded by his loving family and filled with faith.

Bob was a Christian, through and through.
He was a farm boy from Boonville, Indiana.
The son of a coal miner, he helped his mother milk cows each day while hymns by Tennessee Ernie Ford played on the radio. Even then, seeds of faith were growing.

He became a high school basketball player and a trumpet player in the band. Later, he graduated from Indiana University and earned his law degree from Harvard Law School. Clearly, he was not only intelligent but also disciplined and driven.

Professionally, Bob led the Estate Planning Group at Baker and Daniels. He served as a trusted advisor to lawmakers and gave his best to every task. Yet, he never let his achievements define him, remaining humble just as my friend Bob was known to be.

At home, Bob was a loyal husband to Joy for over 50 years. He was a devoted father to Emily and Katie and a proud and doting grandfather to Elzer. Without a doubt, his family was his treasure.

Faith in Action

Bob served others faithfully.
He volunteered regularly at our church’s food pantry.
He was also my personal attorney for 47 years—and more importantly, my dear friend.

Over the years, we shared many R.O.M.E.O. lunches: Retired Old Men Eating Out. Eventually, our friendship grew so deep that we always hugged and said, “I love you” before parting.

His kindness, love, and respect for all people gave us glimpses of God’s heart. Bob’s integrity was unshakable. His word was his bond. And although his intellect was unmatched, his humility was even greater. He truly lived out a Christian legacy that would make any friend proud.

Today, Bob rests less than 100 yards from my own future resting place. We used to joke that when I join him, we’ll keep having lunch—and he promised not to bill me for his time. Heaven indeed.

Scripture for Hope and Comfort

1 Thessalonians 4:13–14 (NIV)

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”
➤ This passage promises a future reunion with those who died in Christ. We grieve, but with hope.

John 14:2–3 (NIV)

“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
➤ Jesus assures us our eternal home is being prepared. We’ll be together again.

Revelation 21:4 (NIV)

“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
➤ One day, death and separation will end forever.

Let Us Pray

Father,
I miss my dear friend Bob.
The pain of his absence runs deep.
But thank You for the hope of reunion, the promise of Heaven, and the comfort that we are never truly alone. Help me rest in the truth that our separation is short and that You are holding both of us—one here, one at home.
Amen.

Let Us Worship In Song

Blessed Assurance – Tennessee Ernie Ford

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