May 5, 1928 - Nov. 20, 2008
Submitted by: Dan Rich
Bob Nelson Lightfoot
May 5, 1928 - Nov. 20, 2008
South Bend Tribune 11/22/2008
LAKEVILLE - Bob Nelson Lightfoot, 80, of Lakeville, IN
passed away suddenly at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, November 20, 2008 at
his home. Bob was a lifelong resident of Lakeville. He was born
May 5, 1928 in North Liberty, IN to Nelson and Cecile (Day)
Lightfoot. He married the former Jean Mikel in 1949. They
celebrated their 59 wedding anniversary on Wednesday, November
19. Along with his wife, Jean, he is survived by his son, Michael
N. (Jacci) Lightfoot of Wakarusa; son in law, Kent M. Gilmer of
South Bend; four grandchildren, Sarah (Chad) Berger of
LaPaz, Carrie (Steve) Smith of Mishawaka, Robbie Lightfoot
and Ryne Lightfoot, both of Wakarusa; three great grandchildren,
Michaela Berger, Jackson Smith and Ryann Smith; sister, Helen
Ruth Wiegand of Lakeville and brother, Richard
"Dick" (Marilyn) Lightfoot of Plymouth. His daughter,
Lynette Gilmer preceded him in death August 27, 1986. Bob
was employed by Studebaker, Heat Treat and Hop Cap before
becoming self employed in woodworking. He was an active member of
Lakeville United Methodist Church, where he sang in the choir for
over 30 years and served on various committees. He also served as
part of the Lakeville Fire Department for over 20 years. Bob
loved watching his grandsons, granddaughters and three great
grandchildren. A man of quiet strength, Bob will be deeply missed
by his family.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday, November 23 and 10 to 11 a.m. Monday in the Lakeville United Methodist Church, 610 N. Michigan St. Lakeville. A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, November 24, in the church. Rev. Larry Dimick will officiate. Burial will follow in Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend. Palmer Funeral Home, Lakeville is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to his two passions, Lakeville United Methodist Church, 610 N. Michigan St., Lakeville, IN 46536 or Bethel College Basketball, 1001 McKinley, Mishawaka, IN 46545.