Robert C. (Bob) Taylor, 73, of Valparaiso, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2023. He was born on February 7, 1950, in McCrory, Arkansas to Cecil C. and Thelma Irene (Jones) Taylor. Bob, a graduate of Valparaiso High School, dedicated his life to public service and loved Porter County. Bob dreamed of being a police officer since the age of 6. He joined the Valparaiso Police Department (VPD) at the age of 21. Law enforcement was his passion. During his time with VPD, he served as an undercover officer, and rose to the rank of Detective Sergeant before being appointed Assistant Chief of Police. After 20 years of service, Bob retired and became the Street Commissioner for the City of Valparaiso. Under Bob's direction, Valparaiso started its first city wide recycling program. Bob loved working with the men and women at the Street Department, but when asked by the County Prosecutor to be the Director of the Porter County Drug Task Force, he could not pass up the opportunity to return to his true love of law enforcement. He was appointed a Special Investigator for the State of Indiana and was thrilled to be able to spend the next 20 years fighting the drug problem in Porter County. Bob wasn't just interested in getting drugs off the streets, but also in helping the families whose lives were impacted by the problem. He spent countless hours trying to get help to those suffering from addiction and counseling with their families. Bob retired from the Prosecutors office in 2015. Bob served on the Valparaiso City Council from 2007-2015, a period in which Valparaiso saw several years of growth and prosperity. His name is memorialized on plaques for many projects around Valparaiso such as Central Park Plaza and the new Valparaiso Street Department complex. He enjoyed 44 years of public service and felt blessed to have made so many friends along the way.
On February 7, 1969, he married the love of his life, Maureen, and their greatest achievement was raising three amazing children: Cheryl (Brian Hold) Miller, Aaron Taylor, and Ryan (Holly) Taylor. His greatest joys were his grandchildren: Kyle (Taylor) Miller, Abby Miller, Lainey Taylor, Jackson Taylor, bonus grandson, Burton (Gabrielle) Miller, and great-grandchildren: Londyn Miller and Rhett Miller, all who survive him.
In addition, Bob is survived by his oldest sister, Novelene Poynor, and his youngest sister, Kim (Dr. David) Beiser, along with sisters-in-law, Jean Taylor and Donna Taylor. He is also survived by many much loved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Joe Taylor, DeWayne Taylor, and Michael Taylor; sisters, Gerleen Patton and Sharon Maack; and brothers-in-law, Stan Poynor and Leonard Maack.
Bob was a member of the Valparaiso Porter Lodge 137 Free & Accepted Masons, the Valparaiso Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 76, and the Valparaiso Baptist Church.
Visitation will be held Sunday, February 12, 2023, from 12 noon – 4 pm at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with Masonic Service beginning at 3:30 pm. The funeral service will begin at 10:30 am on Monday at the funeral home, Pastor Mitch Tabla officiating with burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso, Indiana. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the VNA Hospice Center of Northwest Indiana, Valparaiso.
GUESTBOOK
Bob was a wonderful husband, brother, father, Grandfather, and friend. He is going to be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those that has has this wonderful person. May the Lord comfort you during this difficult time. -Kim Redelman
My condolences and prayers to your family. I have many memories growing up next to your family as neighbors. Bob was a great inspiration to the community. -Jim Rhoda
We are so sad to hear ok Bobs passing. I had the privilege of working with Bob for 13 years. He was the kindest man always trying to help out those in need. We we also privileged to work on Bob's campaign for Sheriff, such a good time supporting a truly amazing man. He's a man that will truly be missed by his friends and family. Prayers for peace in this difficult time. -Nancy and Dean Wise
I’m a firm believer that when we lose someone close to us, like a husband, they continue to live on through us and give us unbelievable strength. They’re so connected to us that they become a part of us. My condolences, -Tami Sick Truex
Bob was a great brother in law, and a great person when him and mo moved to Hot Springs to be close his brother, it was a get time Mike and I 2yrs with him and mo. We were very close did a lot of things together. I will miss him a lot. Donna TAYLOR
You were a wonderful family across the hall from us at VNA. Many prayers and hugs to each of you, Bob was truly lucky to have all of you. Our thoughts and prayers with you today and always. -Kerri (Yeoman) Reding
Bob was truly a man of Honor, Duty and Integrity. It was my deepest honor to know him as a man, friend and a Brother. He loved his family, he loved helping people, and he loved God! I pray God’s blessing and strength on you and for all your family! -Anthony Lee
I grew up in our little community of Pumpkin Bend, Arkansas with Bob and his parents and brothers and sisters. I have always loved this family and considered them family. I’m so sad to see of Bob’s passing. I can tell by the obituary his was a life well lived and he’s leaving quite a legacy. Prayers for all. -Janie (Woodall) Brownderville
I am so very sorry for the loss of your Father, Patriarch, Family member!! I know not much can be said at a time like this is “I’m Sorry”… -Fred
Heaven received a beautiful soul. Praying for comfort and strength for the family. Love, -Anita Steele
Heaven gained an angel this week. Bob was truly a wonderful gentleman. He adored his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a man of honor and great faith in the Lord. He served his community and church throughout his lifetime. I know he continues to watch over and protect his loved ones. We will miss your beautiful smile and your sense of humor Bob. Sending my love to the entire family. -Deb Parks
Sorry for your loss my brother. God speed and prayers to you and your family. -Andrew Merritt
Maureen, Cheryl, Aaron, and Ryan, I am so very sorry to learn of your husband’s/father’s passing. What an amazing example of community service and love he provided to Valparaiso and the surrounding area for so many years. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with the family. I am so very disappointed I will not be able to give a hug and my sympathies to each of you in person as I will be out of town over the days of the funeral services. May your hearts overflow with love as you reminisce the many special memories you have of your husband/father with those surrounding you in the upcoming days. God be with you.
Warmly, -Susan (Resler) Livarchik
Maureen, Love and condolences to you and your family. I will continue to remember you in my prayers. May Bob rest in peace. -Fran Bailey
My heart is saddened to hear of Bob's passing. Myself and Jay are praying for your entire family. I know another star is shining down from heaven watching over all of you Our condolences, -Vickie and Jay Shupe
Our Heartfelt Prayers go out to you. May God keep you and Bless you. Bobby was a nice man who helped many. He surely has a spot in Heaven and will be looking down on you & keeping you safe from above as he did all these years here. God Bless you Maureen & Arron & family. My thoughts and Prayers are with you. -Tammy Huhn
I am so sorry for your loss. Bob and Mo are the greatest friends along with Cheryl and Doc I truly love all of you and I pray for comfort for you all! So sorry for his great sisters also I know it’s a loss for us all but Heavens gain! -Donna Campbell
