Robert "Bob" R Heritage

MIDDLEBURY-Robert “Bob” R. Heritage, 86, of Stone Lake, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living life to the fullest, creating cherished memories, and sharing his love for Stone Lake with family and friends.  

Bob's love of life shone through in the simplest of pleasures. He found great joy in quiet evenings at his Stonelake home, sitting on the swing with his beloved wife, Rosemary, telling stories with friends and family while on a boat ride, and in winter months, overlooking the Indian River with friends. A master storyteller, Bob captivated those around him with tales, some passed down from his father, some true, and some delightfully fabricated, keeping everyone in laughter and suspense.  

Born on July 28, 1938, in Chicago, IL., Bob proudly served in the U.S. Air Force before dedicating himself to his family business. He carried on his grandfather and father's legacy by running the family HVAC company, which his sons and nephew now operate. And later in life as Head of the Powerhouse at Martin Memorial Hospital, where he proudly made an impact on doing what he loved best.  Bob and Rosemary, his devoted wife of 41 years, shared a passion for travel, exploring the country in their RV and motorcycle, while weaving countless adventures into stories that will live on.  

Bob was preceded in death by parents: Ralph and Jody, sons; Craig and Johnny, and his sister, Carol Jean (Paul). He is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary; sons, Joe (Colleen), Patrick (Nicole), John (Mary), and Jan (Daniel); grandchildren, Matthew (Anna), Johnny (Jen), Luke (Marissa), Shawn, Ryan and Maggie; Great Grandchild, Mary; Niece, Tracy; Cousin; Chuck (Karin); Best Friend, Jim (Karen) and the legendary Mudlake Monster, a nod to his playful storytelling spirit.  

A private celebration of Bob's life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a charity close to Robert’s heart, supporting

 veterans or community storytelling programs.  

Bob’s legacy of love, laughter, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 

Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert "Bob" R Heritage, please visit our floral store.