Robert L. “Bob” McKinzie Sr., 58, Coesse, tragically yet heroically lost his life in a home fire at 11:52 p.m. March 5, 2014. The fire also claimed the life of his son-in-law, Rick Niemann. He was born June 19, 1955, in Seymour, to Ervin and Marjorie Bush McKinzie. On Sept. 1, 1973, in Huntington, he married Cherie Shively, who survives in Coesse. He lived in Coesse for seven years, coming from Warsaw. He attended Huntington North High School, Huntington, and served in the U.S. Army. He worked in the shipping department at Dalton Foundries, where he spent 34 years. He was a member of the United Steel Workers Local 6805 and was a board member of the Dalton Club. He bowled league on Sunday nights at Gilliam Bowling Lanes in Warsaw. He was a responsible man who was happy-go-lucky and carefree. He was an avid fisherman. A big football fan, he also loved watching old westerns – especially of John Wayne. He was a Mr. Fix-It who always had a project going. An optimist, he always woke up smiling and went to bed smiling. He was a great dad who loved and cared for his whole family, and although competitive by nature, he had fun playing kickball in the yard with them. He was a proud man who enjoyed going to the sporting events and school activities of his grandchildren. He was very well liked and will be greatly missed by many. Also surviving are two sons, Robert L. (and spouse Rita) McKinzie, Columbia City, and Troy McKinzie, Mentone; two daughters, Trina L. (and spouse David) Burkett, Tippecanoe, and Heather Niemann, Columbia City; three sisters: Melinda (and spouse Charles) Ferguson, Huntington; Janet (and spouse Rich) Doersher, North Webster; and Rosey Lee Lee, Bippus; and 14 grandchildren. He was preceded by his parents and son-in-law, Rick Niemann. Calling is from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Titus Funeral Home, Warsaw. ***** Memorials to Barbee Lake Conservation Club, 3890 N. CR 700E, Warsaw, IN 46582. Condolences may be sent via www.titusfuneralhome.com
