Robert “Bob” Hesher Grove, lifelong Wells County resident, died at 97 on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 4:15 p.m. Passed away at Christian Care in Bluffton,family by his side.
Born April 15, 1929,to Robert “Bob” Neal and Ruth (Hesher) Grove. Preceded by parents and first wife,Marilyn J. Todd . They married May 24, 1953, lasted 54 years until her death July 31, 2007 . In 2009,he wed Judith Hedges, sharing 17 years together.
Graduated Lancaster High School in 1947,worked as contractor with his father. Served in U.S . Army from November 17,1950,to November 15, 1952,stationed in post-war Germany . Ran Texaco station in Decatur,later moved to Main and Washington in Bluffton. Founded Wells Acoustical, ran it into his 80s.
Nearly a century at First Baptist Church,held many roles. Active in American Legion Post #111 in Bluffton for over 70 years .
Loved camping, traveling,family time. “Snow birded” in Texas winters,roamed country with camper . At home,often on golf course or at breakfast with church friends. Passionate sports fan; cheered for Indiana University teams, Green Bay Packers,followed Churubusco baseball.
Survived by son Mark (Denise Milholland) Grove of Churubusco; daughter Beth (Jeff) Stevens of Steuben County; two granddaughters Jennifer (Derek) Hupfer,Brittany (Brennon) Moughler. Leaves three great-grandchildren,three step-grandchildren, many other grandchildren,great-grandchildren. Family includes step-daughters Julie (Lon) Johnson, Debbie (Scott) Trout,Rebecca Gruesbeck,brother-in-law Richard “Dick” Todd of Ossian . Preceded by stepson Keith Lynn Hedges.
Funeral set for noon Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Bluffton, Pastor Peter Fairchild to officiate. Burial follows at Fairview Cemetery,Bluffton. Visitation from 10 a.m. until service begins Wednesday at church. Memorials to Honor Flight of Northeast Indiana or Christian Care Retirement Community,Arrangements by Lemler family of Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home, Bluffton. Condolences at www.thomarich.com.
