Robert “Bob” Jones was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He passed away suddenly on January 2, 2021 at the age of 96 in his hometown of Plymouth, Indiana.
Bob was born in Plymouth, Indiana on December 12, 1924 to Helen (Taber) and Aaron Jones. He graduated from Plymouth High School in 1942. Bob was a voracious reader and identified with the main character in his favorite book Robinson Crusoe. As a young wanderer, he attended different colleges before eventually becoming the first person in his family to graduate, receiving a degree in accounting from Arizona State University.
On June 14, 1943, Flag Day, he was sworn into duty for the Navy and during his service was an electrician. He served for five years before being honorably discharged.
Bob reconnected with the love of his life, Sarah “Sally” Langdon, while on a summer vacation back home in Plymouth. After a whirlwind romance, Sally flew to Hawaii where Bob had started the first computer data processing company, Computab, and they were married on November 8, 1963.
During their 43 wonderful years, they traveled often, enjoyed card playing, and entertaining and were often thought of as the “fun house on the block.” As an accountant, Bob often enjoyed the process of hearing Sally’s recounting of the monthly household expenses and only “pretended” to get upset because he thought it was fun. He credited her with being an excellent cook but knew how to pick up on the signal that her declaration of “stir fry” for dinner meant it was a day she would prefer to eat out. On November 8, 2001 they renewed their vows in the Catholic Church.
Bob’s myriad of hobbies included, but not limited to, fishing, flying his plane, building a boat that he named the “Loriline,” golfing, making golf clubs, playing cards, researching genealogy, racing cars, playing the drums, and traveling.
Bob is survived by his four children: Kathryn (Andrew Lopez) Jones, Robert “Bud” Jones, Lori (Ron) Day, and Erin (A.J. Berger) Houser. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Katie (Brendan) Quinn, Eric (Kristen) Day, Rebecca (Kyle Chamness) Houser, William Houser, and Patrick Houser and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his companion Gina Weigand, brother-in-law Tom Langdon and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Aaron and Helen (Taber) Jones, spouse Sally Jones in 2005 and his grandson Garrett Jones in 2019. Also proceeded in death are his brothers Don “Casey” Jones, Larry Jones and sister Rosemary Listenberger.
A private mass for immediate family will be held Friday, January 8, 2021 at St. Michael Catholic Church. A larger celebration of life will occur in warmer weather.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Michael Catholic Church (612 Walnut St., Plymouth, IN 46563) or Plymouth High School Marching Band Drumline (#1 Big Red Dr., Plymouth, IN 46563).
To watch mass live at 11 a.m., please go to the church’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3uUWjowDtosq_8ReNxhyvw
Judith and William Kiste says
It is well known through his proud family what an awesome life he lived. So many memories to keep the joy of him alive. Hugs to all. Rip special man 🙏
Donna Taber Whitmer says
Sympathy and prayers to you all. Bob was a nice man and with Sally I’m sure your household was a hub of fun!
It was wonderful to read the “Taber” history booklet that both he and Rosemary researched. I have a copy. RIP Cousin Bob!
Barb Lowry says
Prayers for all the Jones family as you celebrate the life of one so loved and who accomplished so much. We will miss him at St. Michael’s Church.
In sympathy,
Barb & Bub Lowry
LAWRENCE J MILLER says
Prayers to the family during this sad time, but what happy memories🙏🏻
Sue and Larry Chase says
Our prayers are with you all, but especially Lori and Erin who I knew the best. When the oldest one in a family dies it is really hard to adjust because you are now the elders to carry on the traditions and memories. Bob was 3 years older then my brother Bill Greenlee(93 and now resides in Vancouver, Wa and myself the youngest. Larry remembers Bob from serving on the Pidco board with him. I just knew them from knowing the Langdon’s, and Listenberger’s and of the course the Jones’. We moved to Sunnyside Dr. in 1975 and I think Bob and Sally mite have still lived on the corner. Patrick Houser and our grandson Peter still remain friends even tho their lives have gone separate ways. Bob is maybe leading the band in heaven along with Jack and Jerry and Sally. Good memories last forever and we have to go on without our loved ones.
Ren and Beverly Van Gilder says
Our sympathy, to the family, of a gentle and kind man.
Sincerely,
Ren and Beverly
Ron Bollman, Anderson, IN says
I had not talked with Bob for many years, it being back in the 1950’s when he was visiting his Mother, Helen, and family. We next met up again, at least 60 years later, in 2012. This was at my 50th. Plymouth High School Reunion, that also being Bob’s 70th PHS reunion. As I always remember he was a joy to visit with, always with his unique smile and sleepy time look. Bob and I shared an Uncle, Chet Taber. Chet was married to my Aunt Ruth, who was my mother’s sister. Even though I’m much younger that the “Jones” children’s I have known them all. Your Dad lived a rich, fun, and life full of love. Bob is not only one of the last of his generation, but, the last of a wonderful family. I am sure he has meet up with his Mom Helen, Dad, Casey, and brother’s, sister, and the one who has always loved him, Jesus his savior. “Eternal rest, grant unto Bob O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace. Amen
May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.” Amen+
Ron Bollman,
Anderson, IN
SANDRA KIEL says
Bob and his family have been long-time friends of the Kiel Family. We enjoyed playing bridge with him and his great sense of humor. We are so very sorry for your loss and he will be missed by a great many people.
Marilee Johnson says
Dear Family and Gina, I was so very sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. He was such a good man. Chuck and I so enjoyed watching the beautiful Love Affair Gina and he had together. It was beautiful. I hope he see’s Chuck in Heaven and they talk about everything. My Love and Prayers to the Whole Family. Marilee
Don Jones says
Never a finer uncle, advisor and friend. An adventurer, loyal to family and friends, able to have fun and inspire me in direction and career. Truly the patriarch of our family. A great brother and friend to my father Casey. I will miss you terribly “Uncle Bob”.