Robert Gene Leedy, lovingly known as "Bob," lived a life full of adventure, love, and dedication. Born on August 26, 1946, in Warsaw, Indiana, Bob spent 78 years making memories that will forever be cherished by those who had the honor of knowing him. On the morning of Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at 9:15 am, Bob passed away peacefully at his Elkhart home, surrounded by the warmth of his family, after a brief illness.

Bob's journey through life began with humble roots, the son of the late Robert C. and Ollie (Slaven) Leedy. He carried their legacy forward with grace, always guided by their values of hard work and kindness. Those who knew Bob will remember him as a man of quiet strength, a man who preferred action over words, and who always put others before himself.

For over 57 years, Bob was the beloved husband of Elizabeth L. (Martin) Leedy, who tenderly cared for him until his final moments. Their love story is one for the ages, built on mutual respect, deep friendship, and an unwavering commitment to one another. Elizabeth, who survives Bob at home, was his rock, his confidante, and his greatest supporter. Together, they created a beautiful life full of love, laughter, and shared dreams.

Bob was a proud father and grandfather, leaving behind a family who adored him. His daughter Cathleen L. (Bruce) Helbling of Elkhart, along with his sons Rodney G. (Machelle L.) Leedy of North Liberty, Indiana, and Robert E. Leedy of Memphis, Tennessee, carry on his legacy of strength and resilience. Bob's sister Polly, from Goshen, was a cherished companion throughout his life, and his 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren were his pride and joy. Family was everything to Bob, and he reveled in every opportunity to share his wisdom, stories, and love with them.

One of the greatest hardships in Bob's life was the loss of his son, Darin R. Leedy. Though Darin's absence left a void in Bob's heart, he found solace in the love of his remaining family and in the memories they shared. He often spoke of Darin with a mix of sadness and pride, honoring his memory in his own quiet way.

Bob's life was marked by service, both to his country and his community. He served nearly a decade in the U.S. Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG) and became a crew chief for a C-130 aircraft. His military service during the Vietnam War was a source of immense pride for him, even though he rarely spoke of it. Bob flew countless missions, including the evacuation of civilians and livestock from combat zones, and survived the harrowing Tet Offensive. His bravery and dedication were recognized by his peers, though he remained humble about his contributions.

Upon returning home, Bob dedicated his career to working as a diesel mechanic, a profession where he found not only success but also lifelong friendships. He spent nearly 40 years at Hill's Truck Sales on Cassopolis Street in Elkhart, where he was known as the "go-to" guy for advice and expertise. As a service manager, Bob's leadership and problem-solving skills made him an invaluable asset to the company and a mentor to many.

In his free time, Bob was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and joy in nature. Whether he was fishing at one of his favorite "honey holes" in Indiana or Michigan, spending time at his son's wilderness retreat near Patoka Lake, or enjoying a day of skeet and trap shooting, Bob felt most at home in the great outdoors. Though he wasn't much of a hunter, the memory of bagging his first deer is one that brought him quiet pride.

Above all, Bob loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were his greatest treasure, and he delighted in watching them grow, teaching them life lessons, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations.

Bob's life will be celebrated with a memorial homegoing service at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elkhart on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 11:00 am. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 am. His very dear friend, Terry Charles, will officiate the services, which will also include military honors rendered by the U.S. Air Force Funeral Honor Guard, the Elkhart Veterans Funeral Honor Guard, and the Northern Indiana Patriot's Guard. Bob's request for cremation has been honored, and his family takes comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bob's memory to his beloved wife, Elizabeth, as she continues to navigate life without her partner by her side.

Bob Leedy touched the lives of so many with his kindness, his strength, and his unwavering love for his family. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

To the Family