Robert “Bob” E. Bede, 88, of La Porte, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2013 at IU Health La Porte Hospital.
He was born in Beatrice, Nebraska on June 30, 1925 to Edward N. and Margaret Shank Bede.
On June 14, 1950 he married Evelyn I. Niemeier who survives. Also surviving are his beloved son, Ronald E. (Sheryl) Bede of La Porte; grandsons, Derek E. Bede of Chicago, Jason A. Bede of La Porte, and Caleb J. Bede of Chicago; brother, Phillip (Mary Ann) Bede of Lincoln, Nebraska; sister-in-law, Alma Bede of Texas; several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Steven Bede; daughter, Mary Fanning; sister, Betty McLain; brothers, Gerald Bede, and Edward (Marian) Bede.
Bob was a United States Navy Veteran, having served his country with honor during WWII in the Pacific. He graduated from Denver University with a B.A. in Business Administration and received his MBA from Denver University. He retired from Walther Lutheran High School, Melrose Park, IL after 20 years of faithful service as a business teacher. While at Walther, he enjoyed attending the drama, concerts, and athletic events. He was on staff at Concordia University, River Forest, IL in the media department. He was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church, where he enjoyed being part of the visitation ministry. He was a former Sunday School Teacher and Choir Member at Faith Lutheran Church of Westchester, IL. While retired he work at the Public Library in Westchester, IL and volunteered at La Porte Hospital, in LaPorte, IN. Bob enjoyed following his grandson's athletic events in the community and at La Porte High School. He was an avid Chicago Sports fan.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 AM on Friday, October 4, 2013 at the Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center with Rev. Dennis Meyer officiating. Burial will take place at Carmel Cemetery following the service with full Military Honors conducted by the La Porte Honor Guard.
A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2013 from 4-7 PM and from 9 AM on Friday until the time of the service at Cutler Funeral Home.
Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Bethany Foundation, 102 "G" Street, LaPorte, IN 46350 or the American Red Cross, LaPorte County Chapter, 113 Warren Rd., Michigan City, IN 46360.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlerfuneralhome.com.