Bob Gast (C) poses with friends and family. Photo Provided.
Bob Gast (C) poses with friends and family. Photo Provided.
Bob Gast celebrated his 101st birthday Tuesday, March 28.

“I set up the Bob and Marge Gast Community Fund last year, in honor of my grandfather’s 100th birthday,” said Natalie Fierek. “He’s a funny and humble man. He still enjoys being active in the community!”

Bob Gast was born and raised in Warsaw. He graduated from Warsaw High School in 1940 and attended Indiana University shortly after, until he served in the Army during World War II. During the war, he earned a purple heart, among other medals.

Bob married his sweetheart, Marge. Together, they had seven children (three of whom were adopted). They lived in Winona Lake most of their lives. Now, Bob enjoys being surrounded by his 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

“Grandpa has been very involved in the Warsaw community,” Fierek said. “He served on the city council. He is still active in the Rotary, the Salvation Army and with Mobile Meals. He also attends regular meetings with a group of local veterans.”

The Bob and Marge Gast Community Fund contributes to Community Fund grants, which support charitable organizations and causes throughout Kosciusko County, according to a news release from the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. The most recent Community Funds grant cycle awarded over $160,000 to 20 organizations.

To give to the Bob and Marge Gast Community Fund, visit kcfoundation.org/funds. Checks can be sent to 102 E Market St, Warsaw, IN 46580 with “Bob and Marge Gast Community Fund” in the memo line.

Kosciusko County Community Foundation Inc. is a public charity whose mission is to bring caring people and charitable endeavors together to inspire generosity and strengthen communities. The Community Foundation grants about $3 million annually in the areas of education, health, arts and culture, recreation, civic projects, environment and human services. Gifts made to the Community Foundation are tax-deductible. For more information, visit www.KCFoundation.org, call 574-267-1901 or visit 102 E. Market St., Warsaw.