Robert Earl Bales

Robert Earl Bales, passed away on February 5, 2022. Earl, as he was commonly known, was born in Fithian, IL on August 14, 1925 to parents, Wilbur and Myrtle (Solomon) Bales.  Robert served his country honorably in the US Army as a medic during WWII.  During his career, Robert worked for the University of Illinois Fire Department for several years.  Following, he worked in sales for Montgomery Ward, Wholesale TV and eventually went on to retire from Macy’s (formerly Lazarus).  In his spare time he enjoyed spending time with family, and playing and watching golf.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: John Bales, Margaret Schaefer, Georgia Hill, Betty Barnett, Juanita Rose, Barbara Helms, and Gene Bales and great-granddaughter, Lyla Hesselink.

Robert is survived by his wife of 75 years, Verna (Anderson) Bales; son, Mark Bales; daughter, Laurie Hesselink (Craig); grandsons, Tyler Hesselink (Madi) and Evan Hesselink (Allison); great-grandchildren, Everett, Astrid and Norah Hesselink, and brother James Bales.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at Flanner Buchanan-Carmel, 325 E. Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN.