Robert "Bob" J. Cripe

Robert J. Cripe, 87, of South Bend passed away suddenly and went home to be with his Lord, Sunday, September 6, 2015 in Memorial Hospital. He was born in Nappanee, IN on July 31, 1928 to the late Joseph and Sereta (Livengood) Cripe.  He graduated from Niles High School in 1946.  October 15, 1949, he was united in marriage to Joyce Schock in Mishawaka, IN.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Cripe, of 65 years; children, Diana (Dean) Wade of Syracuse, IN, Kathy (Jim) Mangus of South Bend, IN, Robert Charles Cripe of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Susan (Patrick) Hudkins of Saratoga Springs, NY.  Bob was blessed with 12 grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. . . . . soon to be 4.  Also surviving are his sisters, Avis (Royal) Bechtold of Sarasota, FL, Nancy (Chris) Singleton of Niles, MI, brother-in-law, Richard (Noreen) Schock of Granger, IN and sister-in-law, Pam Waidner of Mishawaka, IN.

Bob enjoyed spending time with his children and many grandchildren.  He loved to travel across the country, camping in his younger days and after retiring took joy in wintering for 17 years at Ormand Beach, FL.  He loved to play sports and was very skilled in both the game of billiards and horseshoes.  Bob was a rock star at making chocolate candy for his family!  He will be missed by family and friends who are thankful for all the memories that were created together.  He knew no strangers and will be remembered by all.

He worked 19 years as a assistant manager of Sample Apartment Hotel and 13 years with Associates Investment Corp.  He retired after 17 years with the former NBD Bank, Elkhart, IN.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of  Bob may be offered to Community Baptist Church 5715 Miami St., South Bend, IN 46614 where he had been a member for 50 years.  Those wishing to leave a message for the family may do so at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

Family and friends may call from 3:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 10, 2015 at the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan St. South Bend, IN.  The funeral service will take place at Community Baptist Church, 5715 Miami St. South Bend, IN on Friday, September 11, 2015 at 12 noon with an hour visitation prior to the service.  Pastor Carl Herbster will officiate.  Following the service, burial will be at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger, IN.

 Service Information