Robert Thomas Colson

Robert T. Colson, 76, passed away Saturday, January 5, 2019 at Hearthstone Health Campus in Bloomington. He was born on October 30, 1942 in Bloomington to William Thomas ‘Tom’ and Mable (Day) Colson. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Martha (May) Colson; his step-sons, Dennis (Pam) Waterford and David Waterford, and multiple grandchildren and great grand-children. He is preceded in death by his parents and one infant brother, Paul. Bob was diagnosed with spina bifida at birth and was expected to have a short lifespan. At three days old, he had major surgery where goat bones were carved and placed in his spine. This turned out to be life changing and he was able to walk most of his life. Bob attended Bloomington High School and graduated in 1961. He had a love for racing and raced sprint cars under the name of Bobby Thomas, so his mother wouldn’t read his name in the newspaper and find out he was racing. He also enjoyed playing the bass and listening to music. He went on to study architecture and drafting, and also trained to be a realtor. Bob worked at IU for 38 years beginning in Building Services and retiring as Assistant Manager of Mail Services. He married Martha on October 28, 1978, and they continued their love of racing by traveling to watch races and sponsoring teams. He became ‘Papaw Bobby’ when his grandchildren were born. Bob was a Christian, and leaned on his faith as his health failed him in later years. The funeral service will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home; 4150 E. Third St. with Bro. Mike Davis officiating. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. Friends may visit the family on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 10 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Online condolences may be given at www.DayDeremiahFrye.com