Robert Gerald "Bob" Hechlinski Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Robert Gerald Hechlinski, 79, of Bloomington passed away on May 26, 2020 at the Golden Living Center. Born March 25, 1941 in South Bend, Indiana. Father Harry Hechlinski. Mother Frances Hynek. He was a 1958 graduate of St. Joseph's High School and with the G.I. Bill got a B.S. in Business (General Management) from University of Indiana at South Bend June 9, 1969. After high school Bob joined the Air Force and spent 2 years stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. From there he transferred to Travis AFB in California. His job was as an aircraft and engine mechanic and flew as an in-flight mechanic. While stationed at Travis AFB, he took private flying lessons and so began a lifelong love of flying and eventually owning his own plane (a beloved Piper Cub). While at Travis AFB, Bob also met and married the love of his life Nancy Tarleton. After the Air Force Bob and Nancy moved back to South Bend, located for a while in Florida, back to South Bend, then Dyer, Indiana and upon retirement moved to Bloomington. Bob worked for Bendix Aerospace Corporation, Pullman and a Japanese train company for several years. Bob was a very intelligent man and filled with energy. He was very engaging and "never met a stranger". He and Nancy both shared a passion for sailing and owned a couple of sail boats on Lake Michigan (even circumnavigating the lake one season). Bob published a book about flying entitled "Honey, I Bought an Airplane". He mentored at least one high school student that I know of and was very active in the Roman Catholic Church. A life well lived, may they both rest in the peace of God. Bob is survived by two brother and sisters-in-laws, Rob and Susan Tarleton of Willows, CA; Paul and Carol Brugger of Carson City, Nevada; He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Nancy Lee Hechlinski. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation Rites have been accorded, Bob will be laid to rest by his wife Nancy at St. Joseph Cemetery in South Bend, Indiana. Allen Funeral Home and Crematory have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences, photos, and memories may be shared with family and friends at www.allencares.com

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Robert Gerald "Bob" Hechlinski

March 25, 1941 - May 26, 2020