Frederick Robert “Bobby”, also known as “Fred” Donner, 89, of Chesterton, Indiana passed away Wednesday, November 12, 2025 in Chesterton Manor’s exceptional Memory Care unit.
He was born April 21, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois to Frederick W. & Dorothy M. (Schwandt) Donner. Bobby grew up in Elmwood Park, Illinois where he had helped friends and neighbors with great patience, taking the elderly for walks, grocery shopping or cleaning for them. Moving to Indiana he attended Immanuel Lutheran Church and worked for Opportunity Enterprises in Valparaiso. He also received an award for his volunteer work delivering Meals on Wheels. Despite his challenges, his positive attitude and ready smile endeared him to many. He made friends, contributed as he was able & will be fondly remembered by his friends and family for his giving nature. Always helping where he could.
Bobby is survived by his sisters, Betti Schlanger of Poplar Grove, Illinois and Marilyn Shoulders of Manson, Washington. He has loving nieces & nephews, great-nieces & nephews, as well as friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Sharon Berndt of Chesterton, Indiana. His sisters are grateful for his lifelong, loyal friendship with Tom Greco, of Elmwood Park. Tom called and visited Bobby often over many years.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory, Valparaiso, Indiana a private committal ceremony will be held at Irving Park Cemetery in Chicago.
