Robert J. Sears Jr.

Robert J. Sears Jr., of Winona Lake, passed away quietly at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne on Friday, December 9, 2022, at the age of 68.

Known to most as “Bob” or “Grizzly”, he was born on June 21, 1954, in Anderson, Indiana, the son of Robert Joseph Sears Sr. and Betty Sears (Woodward). He was united in marriage to his true love, Deborah, in Rochester on November 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. Bob was an Army Veteran, a reserve police officer for the Rochester Police Department and a member of the Fulton County FOP.  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, Indiana, 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, Indiana, Pam (Mike) Myers of Newton, Kansas, Violet Hunt of Logansport, Indiana, and Judy McKay of South Dakota; in laws, Kathy (Mike) Stutzman of Kissimmee, Florida; Bill (Melody) Krisher of Arnold Missouri, and Douglas Krisher of Los Angeles, California. He is further survived by several beloved nieces and nephews. He is 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, December 17, 2022, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Fourth Street Rochester, Indiana beginning a 2:00pm. To leave a condolence or send flowers, please visit www.TitusFuneralHome.com