Robert T. Kiefer

Robert T. Kiefer, 88, of Elkhart, passed away in his home on Thursday, September 16, 2021.

He was born November 23, 1932 in Elkhart, IN to the late Austin and Edna (Fischer) Kiefer. He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Betty (Haines), his son Robert Jr., his parents, his sisters Elaine, Phyllis, Patricia, Joyce, and his brother Edward.

He is survived by his children, Deborah (Mike) Martin, Pamela (Jeff) Kendell, Stephen, Theresa, James (Cathy), Kevin; his sister Betty Pletcher, and brother Joseph (Becky). Survivors also include grandchildren Chad, Dan, Jennifer, Christy, Emily, Erin, Adam, Bobby, Elaine, Megan, Heather, Lauren and Chase; along with 18 great-grandchildren.

Robert was a 1950 graduate of Concord High School where he was a cheerleader. He was a lifelong member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. He was owner of Kiefer Manufacturing Company where he worked most of his life perfecting the art of bell making brass instruments and air horns. He obtained a patent for the method and his specialty products were sought by high profile musicians. In his retirement years he enjoyed winters in Florida, golfing, football games, woodworking, feeding the birds and shooting at squirrels. Since his wife Betty’s passing in 2013, his daughter Theresa was his companion and caregiver.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 21 from 5-7 p.m. at Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home, with a rosary recited at 7 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church on Wednesday, September 22 at 10 a.m.  The Rev. Craig Borchard will officiate and burial will be in St. Vincent Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Robert’s name to the St. Vincent de Paul Cemetery restoration fund in care of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church Elkhart, Ind.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert T. Kiefer, please visit our floral store.