Bob Dillman

   Robert R. "Bob" Dillman, Sr., 90, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Thursday morning, October 24, while surrounded by his loving family.

   Bob was born to George Alexander, Jr. & Pearl May Wolfenbarger Dillman in Richmond, Indiana on October 12, 1934. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. During his service as an Airman, he met his first wife, Jane. They were married on August 17, 1957. They were blessed with 4 children and 53 years together before her death on February 9, 2010.

   Honorably discharged after 11 years of dedicated military service, he served as a crew chief on the Douglas C-124, a role he took with great pride. He also competed on the Air Force boxing team. Bob cherished his time serving his country and remained a proud American throughout his life.

   After his military service, Bob worked for Oberle-Jordre Rigging Company, where he excelled as a skilled millwright and was recognized as one of the best arc welders in the field. Known for his precision and innovation, he was sought after for many specialized projects in the community. 

   With uncanny “MacGyver” abilities, he improvised and created solutions using whatever items were on hand. Together with his brother, Don, Bob started a small business in Fountain City, where he showcased his welding craftsmanship. 

   His ornery personality made him a magnet to his grandkids and great-grands where you’d always find at least one in his lap. Bob’s warm greetings and familiar "Hi, Sugar!" will be missed dearly. He made each person feel special and appreciated. Bob was always ready to lend a hand to those in need, leaving a legacy of selflessness and kindness in everything he did. His hard work, generosity and quiet strength left an impact on everyone he met, and he will be remembered for his integrity, humility and love for family.

    Bob was a special man, a great dad to his girls, and the best Papa ever! His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished forever.

    Bob will be missed by his wife of 13 years, Anita Dillman, who he married on May 11, 2011; daughters, Ranita Norman, Rhonda Pierce & husband, Scott; and Robbin Norton; grandchildren, Brandi (Daniel) Jackson, Jenny Stegall, Jasmine (Brian) Carpenter, Matthew (Alesia) Pierce, Traci (Daniel) Santangelo, Alana (Cory) Ryan and Zachary (Hannah) Norman; great-grandchildren, Lydia Jackson, Ben Jackson, Diego Carpenter, Nalaya Colon, Josiah Rainer, Imani Lindsay, Addison Pierce, Henry Pierce, William Pierce, Andrew Pierce, Jax Santangelo, Milicent Santangelo, Javin Santangelo, Emma Ryan, Cooper Ryan, Ainsley Ryan, Ruthie Norman, Zacharias Norman and Judith Norman; brother, Don Dillman & wife, Bev; and nieces & nephews; Anita's sons, Lynn (Charla) Cutshaw and their two children; Scott Cutshaw and his four children.

    Bob was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, Jane; son, Robert R. "Bobby" Dillman, Jr.; sisters, Inez Horner and Bernice "Bea" Marquis.

    Bob's life will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, at the Smith-McQuiston & Webster Funeral Home, 321 US Hwy 27South, Fountain City. Interment with military rites will follow in Willow Grove Cemetery.

    Family and friends may gather for visitation from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. with service following on Saturday, November 2, at the funeral home.

    Memorial contributions are encouraged for Tunnel to Towers, t2t.org.