Robert “Bob” D. Hines, 93, of La Porte, Ind., peacefully passed away at home on Jan. 22, 2021.
He was born July 30, 1927, in Royal Center, Ind., to Tom and Julia (Carlson) Hines.
Bob was a proud Army veteran of World War II and a member of the local VFW and American Legion. He retired from Whirlpool in 1995, where he and his brother, Herb, were among the first employees when it opened in La Porte in 1951.
Bob loved sports – especially Chicago and college teams. He was a great basketball player in his day, and even had the fun opportunity to play (and lose!) a game against the Harlem Globetrotters. Having experience coaching youth baseball teams, he went on to unofficially coach his oldest granddaughter’s La Porte High School softball and basketball games … from the third row back. Bob also enjoyed playing pool, participating in a league for many years.
Bob left us with many memorable words of wisdom regarding sports, gardening and the importance of driving slowly, among other things. A great father, grandpa, uncle and friend, he will be dearly missed.
On Sept. 6, 1952, he married Nancy J. Dowden, who preceded him in death.
Also preceding him were one son, Doug; parents; one sister, Wilma; and three brothers, Gene, Dave and Herb.
Bob is survived by two sons, Steve and Rich; grandchildren, Brynn, Brayde, Carson, Jill and Haley; and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his three sisters, Retta, Donna and Judy, and two brothers, Glen and Frank.
A private graveside service with Full Military Honors will be held at Pine Lake Cemetery, La Porte, with Chaplain Joe Mollet officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW, 181 McClung Rd., La Porte, Ind. 46350; and American Legion, 228 E. Lincoln Way, La Porte, Ind. 46350.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.