Robert N. "Bob" Birkey

Robert N. “Bob” Birkey, 92 years old, transitioned into the presence of Jesus on Monday, June 21, 2021. He passed unexpectedly at his home. Bob was born on December 21, 1928 in Nappanee to the late G.A. “Gip” and Verda (Schmeltzer) Birkey. He has remained a lifelong resident of Bremen. On September 4, 1949 in Bremen, Bob married the love of his life, Arlene L. Aker.

Along with Arlene, his loving wife of 71 years, Bob is survived by their children, John (Debbie) Birkey of Bremen, Jeanne (Denny) Yoder of New Paris, and Jackie (Mark) Marsh of Bremen; daughter-in-law, Julie Birkey of Bremen; 14 grandchildren; 40 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; and his sister, Carol Boyer of Bremen. Bob was preceded in death by his son, James A. Birkey, on July 14, 2018. 

Bob had a light-hearted, joking personality. He was a pilot for 72 years and loved to fly. Bob and Arlene were involved in Flying Farmer’s Club for several years. Bob was a hard-worker, a dairy farmer for 43 years and farmed for 66 years. Bob and Arlene welcomed numerous groups to the farm throughout the years. They worked together in the Chuck Colson Prison Fellowship and faithfully attended Nappanee Missionary Church. He accepted Jesus Christ into his heart at the age of 45.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at the Nappanee Missionary Church, 70417 S.R. 19, Nappanee, IN.  Pastor Jason Rohde will officiate. Graveside services and burial will follow at Bremen Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 30th, and from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Thursday at the Nappanee Missionary Church. Palmer Funeral Home in Lakeville is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Bob Birkey may be donate to the World Missionary Press, 19168 County Road 146, New Paris, IN  46553.  Online condolences may be offered to the Birkey family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com. 

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