The world is a little less generous and less funny today, because Bob Gleason left this life on August 22, 2023. His humor was never at the expense of anyone but himself, unless you count the damage to eyes inflicted as everyone he met rolled them at his puns. He was born in Buffalo, NY on January 2, 1951 to George and Elaine (Thomas) Gleason (deceased). He attended Hobart High School and Valparaiso University.
He loved to read, and could have run a bookstore out of his garage if he had been able to part with any of the books. He loved children, because “we’re the same age.” He loved music. He loved picking up peoples’ checks anonymously in restaurants. He loved his family. If he had ever won the lottery he would have had a blast giving it all away.
Bob worked in healthcare in various capacities, mostly as a cardiac ICU nurse, before recovering from that and retiring. He served in the Air Force and the Navy Reserves. He spent most of his adult life in Valparaiso before moving to West Lafayette to be closer to a bookstore.
He is survived by his children, Amy Austin (BJ), Chuck Gleason (Sara), and Megan Wiesjahn (Trey), his grandchildren, Mary Grace, Claire, and Jack Austin, Lexi and Drew Gleason, and Kate and Allie Wiesjahn - and countless adopted grandkids who called him GBob; his siblings Gayle (Dennis) Brickley, Tim (Debbie) Gleason, and Kevin (Michelle) Gleason, brother-in-law Bob Bly, and honorary sister and dear friend Jeneane Webster. We know he is thrilled to be reunited with his sisters, Vikki and Ann, his nephew Tommy, and his parents in the next existence.
A memorial party will take place on September 3 from 12-3 pm at the Chapel at Aberdeen Manor, 216 Ballantrae, Valparaiso. Bring stories and Dad jokes.
Donations to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, because he loved kids and reading, would be appreciated. In his honor, please commit random acts of kindness as often as possible and use his Barnes & Noble Membership - 559-9672-243.
GUESTBOOK
Chuck, I’m so very sorry for your loss. Your dad sounds like he was a terrific guy. -Melissa Szczerba
I did not know Bob but I know his brother Tim and sister-in-law Debbie. Bob sounds like a wonderful person. Condolences to Tim and Debbie, Bob’s children, all his family and friends.
God bless you all with many sweet memories. -Carol ( Hipsher) Morales
I am still shocked and saddened by news of Bob’s passing. He was always larger than life. A great nurse with no drama. He would show up with dressed in his multicolor suspenders and his tiny, noisy fan. Great sense of humor with a devilish, infectious smile. Rest in peace, my friend. You deserve it and much more. I only hope your heavenly chariot is faster than that three cylinder Geo Metro. -Mike Kovacich
Sorry for the family for their loss. I had not seen Bob for quite a few years, but I do remember him from school and Indian Guides. Always sad to see classmates leave us. -Duke Sakon
Dear Amy, BJ, Mary Grace, Clair and Jack, Thinking of you and wishing you peace, comfort and strength during this difficult time. Please accept our warmest condolences. -WLCSC Administration and School Board of Trustees
My heartfelt sympathies to Bob’s family. Bob was a great nurse and a wonderful and kind person. May his memory be eternal! -Melanie Samardzija
Our sincere condolences on your enormous loss. We worked with Bob @ Methodist Hospital for years. Bob was was such an excellent nurse & was so kind & caring to his co-workers. His trademark @ the hospital were his suspenders & also having the biggest heart. We hope the beautiful & wonderful memories of him will help ease the pain of his passing. Sincerely, -Bob's Methodist Family
So sad to hear this news. I was doing some research on our family tree and found this obituary. I also did not know of Ann’s passing. Your dad and my mom always did a good job of keeping us all in touch. Uncle Bill too. Somehow our generation lost the Gleason family thread. My heart goes out to all of Bob’s family. -Cousin Jannie
Sending loving thoughts & prayers. I worked with Bob @ Methodist Hospital. He was not only an exceptional nurse he was admired & respected by his fellow employee's. His jolly good laugh, his suspenders & his heart of gold will always be remembered. Bob always brought in donuts every Sunday & would page me on my pager letting me know donuts were here & he always put one aside for me because he was so kind & considerate. May all the beautiful memories of him and prayers help ease the pain of your enormous loss. -Beth Kristoff
