Robert F. Primrose

Oct. 14, 1923 - Aug. 1, 2011

Published in South Bend Tribune on August 3, 2011

SOUTH BEND - Robert F. Primrose, 87, of South Bend, passed away on August 1st with his family at his bedside.

Robert was born in South Bend on October 14th, 1923, to the late Robert and Grace Primrose. His wife of 63 years, Rosemary, and sister, Alyce Juday, also precede him in death.

Surviving are his three children, Lynda (Jeff) Price of Niles, MI, Robert (Pam) Primrose of Mishawaka, IN, and Thomas (Veronia) Primrose of South Bend. He was a grandfather of six and great-grandfather of nine. Robert graduated from Central High in 1941 where he played basketball and baseball for the legendary Coach Wooden. Robert proudly served his country during World War II and was a staff sergeant for the 7th Battalion Railroad Shop. His battalion was instrumental in supplying General Patton's push toward Germany and ultimate liberation. Robert was a recipient of three bronze stars. Sadly, only one member is left of the 7th Battalion Railroad Shop. Robert worked 27 years at South Bend Tool & Die as a Tool and Die maker and later as the shop general manager. Robert also worked for Bendix, Adams Engineering, and retired from Capital Technologies as a shift supervisor in 1988. Robert and Rosemary devoted much of their time and energy to their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and epitomized the true meaning of being a parent.

Robert and Rosemary enjoyed to travel, especially to Army reunions throughout the United States, and did their best to keep in touch with fellow veterans. During Robert's retirement, he pursued a new career and discovered a hidden talent for art. Robert, along with his daughter, Lynda, developed art forms that successfully combined many mediums including drift wood, ceramics and cast iron. Robert and Lynda participated in many art shows and became regionally known for their unique medium combinations and creativity. Their art work was featured in many newspaper articles, and had a placed in numerous art competitions. He was a member of the American Legion Post 303 and the Knights of Columbus Council 5521. Robert possessed many talents/virtues including and most importantly that of a good parent and devoted husband. He saw much in his lifetime, including the horrors of war, and never shirked his responsibilities to his country, his family or his wife.
He is truly a part of the Greatest Generation and he will be solely missed. The family will receive friends today, Wednesday, August 3rd, from 2-4 pm & 6-8 pm, with a Rosary to be recited at 3:45 pm at the Bubb Funeral Chapel, 3910 N. Main St., Mishawaka. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, August 4, 2011, at St. Matthew's Catholic Cathedral, 1701 Miami, South Bend, with Monsignor Michael Heintz officiating.

Burial will follow the service at Fairview Cemetery in Mishawaka. The Primrose family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Healthwin for the care giving to their father while at that facility. In lieu of flowers, the family requested that memorial contributions be made to Healthwin Specialize Care, 20531 Darden Road, South Bend, IN 46637.

08/08/2022 EJS