Bob went home to Jesus peacefully in his sleep early Sunday morning. He had been in Hospice care since January due to pancreatic cancer. Bob adored his hospice nurses and aides, telling them often that he loved them. After his life partner passed away in April, Bob moved to Lakes of Monclova. He was loved dearly by all of his caregivers, and praised them everyday, saying that he felt like he was at a fancy hotel!
Bob was born the third of four children, to Charles Schuyler Birch and Helen Leila (Neff) in Lafayette, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents; his eldest sister, Harriet Joy Hunt; younger sister, Elizabeth Etta Basham; brother - in - law, Darrell Robert Everly Sr., loving and dear friend, Wes Hayes; and the love of his life for almost fifty years, Jack Schillace. He will wait in heaven for his sister, who will greatly miss him, Geranda (Jeanie) Claire Everly. He will also be missed by 12 nieces and nephews and their spouses, numerous great nieces and nephews, and his god-daughter, Charlie. Many friends will miss him as well. Especially lifelong friends Leroy and Shirley Mattison, Diane Ireland, Eilene Tippin, brother- in-law Frank Hunt, and a special friend, Maggie.
Bob lived an exciting life in Kew Garden, New York where he worked for American Airlines. From there he moved to the Virgin Islands for two years, then moved to Los Angeles, CA. He told everyone, that he lived in "God's Country". Bob and Jack lived happily in LA for some thirty years. He became a Boiler Maker for Crown Hotels until his retirement in 2008. Bob and Jack moved back home and lived in the family's home in Sylvania Township.
Bob enjoyed anything electronic that he could take apart and put back together. He always had the latest and greatest gadgets. He was a whiz on computers and enjoyed taking care of his large yard full of many varieties of flowers along with his vegetable garden. Bob could grow the biggest tomatoes and the most beautiful roses. He was rough and gruff on the outside, but had a heart of gold. He would joke and jest with you, but give you the shirt off his back, if you were in need. Bob loved to go to Bingo! He would have continued going if the no smoking law hadn't taken effect. Bob also loved his coffee, but no one else could drink the coffee that he made until they watered it down!
The family would like to thank Hospice for their services, but especially the caring staff of Lakes of Monclova and Chaplain Christopher Roper, who visited, prayed with, and discipled Bob the past three months. In lieu of flowers please send a gift in Bob's name to the Hospice of your choice, or to Lakes of Monclova.
Graveside Service will be held at Springfield Township Cemetery, Wednesday August 2, 2017 at 2:00 PM. Services provided by Newcomer Funeral Home. Special gratitude is given to A-J Jordan, who supported the family in this difficult time.