Robert William Eichstedt

South Bend - Robert William Eichstedt, Jr., 79, passed away on Wednesday, September 29, 2021, from complications from ALS, with his loving family by his side.

Bob was born on September 2, 1942, in South Bend. He graduated from Washington High School in 1960 and served in the communication battery in the Army Reserves from 1964 -1970.

On September 18, 1971, in St. Matthew Cathedral, Robert married Rita (Riggs) and recently celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary. They have three children, Kristen Eichstedt of South Bend, Jeffery (Manda) Eichstedt of South Bend, and Scott (Melanie) Eichstedt of Mishawaka; and three beautiful grandchildren, Wesley, Colin, and Quinn.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Robert Eichstedt, Sr., his brother-in-law Paul Clark, and his nephew, David Clark. Survivors include his wife, children and grandchildren, his mother, Elizabeth "Bette" Eichstedt, his brothers Mark of South Bend, Richard (Kathy) of Walkerton, his in-laws, Daniel and Trudy Riggs, Mary Kathryn Clark, James and Janice Seese, David and Kathy Riggs, and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was employed for over thirty years by Eichstedt manufacturing, and later retired from Utilimaster of Wakarusa.

Bob was a member of the Mishawaka Rifle and Pistol Club and enjoyed shooting matches followed by a burger and fries with friends. He also enjoyed building and fixing things, doing much of the work on his own home. He also loved mowing and working on his lawn, reading, watching movies, especially science fiction, playing pool in his basement, and playing with his grandchildren.

Bob greatly appreciated the phone calls and visits he received from friends and family during his illness.

Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Matthew Cathedral 1701 Miami Street South Bend, IN 46613, or ALS Association of Indiana Chapter 7202 E. 87th St., Ste. 102, Indianapolis, IN, 46256, or Elara Caring Hospice 2515 Bendix Dr Ste 103, South Bend, IN 46628.

Visitation is 2-5pm on Sunday, October 3, 2021, in Palmer Funeral Home – Guisinger Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Monday, October 4, 2021, in St. Matthew Cathedral with visitation one hour prior to the Mass in the Church. Burial will follow in Southlawn Cemetery.

Condolences for the family may be made at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

Posted online on October 03, 2021

10/03/2021 EJS