Robert J. Sears Jr.Robert J. Sears Jr., of Winona Lake, passed away quietly at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne on Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, at the age of 68.
Known to most as “Bob” or “Grizzly,” he was born on June 21, 1954, in Anderson, the son of Robert Joseph Sears Sr. and Betty Woodward Sears. He was united in marriage to his true love, Deborah, in Rochester on Nov. 24, 1972. The two shared 50 years together and spent their lives raising their three children.
Bob was the best grandpa and great-grandpa, enjoying every moment spent with his family. He also loved to be constantly on the go, whether that be camping, playing putt putt or going to the zoo. For much of his life, he worked as a driver, traveling all over the United States. During that time, he shared many on-the-road experiences with his wife as a duo. He felt most fulfilled when he assisted the elderly to appointments and other activities for Transpo. He was blessed with many lifelong friends and “adopted by heart” family.
Those who survive with his memories to cherish include his wife of 50 years, Deborah, who resides in Winona Lake; three children: Robert (Betty) Sears, of Portland, Ind.; William Sears, of Fort Wayne; and daughter, Kristin Sears, of Fort Wayne; seven grandchildren: Brad Sears, Bryce Sears, Bethany Sears, Mikayla Sears, Jasper Sears, Sadie Manson and Nathan Manson; two great-grandchildren, Jaxon and Silas; siblings: Willie Sears, of Peru, Ind.; Pam (Mike) Myers, of Newton, Kan.; Violet Hunt, of Logansport; and Judy McKay, of South Dakota; in-laws, Kathy (Mike) Stutzman, of Kissimmee, Fla.; Bill (Melody) Krisher, of Arnold, Mo.; and Douglas Krisher, of Los Angeles. He is further survived by several beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in passing by his parents, Robert Sr. and Betty; granddaughter, Josephine Rae “Josie” Sears; brothers, Hayden Wayne Sears and Bryon Utter; and sister-in-law, Linda Bucher Utter.
Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services is entrusted with Bob’s care. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 17 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Fourth St., Rochester, beginning at 2 p.m.
To leave a condolence, please visit www.TitusFuneralHome.com.
