Robert M. Coleman Sr.

Robert M. Coleman Sr., age 91 years, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 11, 2026, at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne IN. He was born on June 11, 1935, to John and Jermina Coleman. Born and raised in Barbourville, Kentucky, as the middle child, with one older sister, Delores, and a younger brother, John III. At age 24, Bobby and his beautiful wife, Roselyn Coleman, welcomed their first daughter, Robin, followed by Renee and then their son, Robert Jr.

When his children were very young, Bobby became a single father and raised three children on his own. With the support of a loving village, including dear friends, the late Winifred and Arthur Rice, the late Willie Mae Harding, Mattie Irby, other special close friends, as well as his second wife Martha. His job and his children were his life and he continued working hard and steadfast on raising and caring for his family.

Encouraged by his Uncle Tiny and Aunt Shirley, he moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana, at a young age after hearing of the great job opportunities there. Soon after, he was hired by International Harvester at just 18 years old. Working 10-to-12 hour shifts six days a week, Bobby became known as one of the hardest-working men anyone could meet. His work ethics and dedication was beyond impeccable it was incredible.

On April 30, 1983, Bobby was transferred with Navistar to its engine plant in Indianapolis, Indiana. There, at age 48, he began a new chapter of life. He continued to work long, demanding days, and while he worked hard, he also enjoyed life just as fully. Bobby retired on July 31, 2003, at the age of 68.

In retirement, Bobby filled his time racing and flying remote-controlled boats and airplanes. He loved refurbishing old cars, transforming them into hot rods with paint jobs as unique as he was. Gifted beyond measure, Bobby could fix almost anything and seemed to master everything he touched.

Those hobbies took a back seat when Bobby became close friends and family with Mike and Janice Swan. Through them, he became deeply involved in NHRA drag racing, which quickly became one of his greatest joys.

In March 2021, during the midst of COVID, Bobby’s family decided it was time for him to be closer to home. He moved in with his daughter Renee, who lovingly and tirelessly cared for him through the health challenges he faced over the last five years.

He loved his 70-inch TV, recliner, firestick, and Renee’s dog, Banks, whom he spoiled completely. In Bobby’s eyes, Banks could do no wrong; he slept with him, followed him everywhere, and enjoyed all his leftovers. Bobby seldom missed a football or basketball game, college or professional. He enjoyed watching boxing and NASCAR events. He loved the Colts and the Pacers, celebrated IU’s football 2025 National Championship with great excitement, and became a devoted Chicago Bears fan thanks to his granddaughter, Elaena.

Bobby leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Robin Harris and Renee Coleman; his sons, Robert Coleman Jr. (Lori Johnson) and Brian Coleman and his cherished grandchildren: Elicia Harris, MD, MBA, Edward Durane Harris II, Elaena Harris, Esq., Renita Coleman, Dwight Coleman, Austin Coleman, Reshon McClure’ Coleman, Desmond McClure’ Coleman, Kachet Saint-Pierre (Patrick), Kierra White (Darrion) and Kam Coleman.

He also leaves 27 great-grandchildren; his brother, John Coleman; his favorite Uncle Warren, and many special friends, including Mike and Janice Swan, Gail Garnett, Dave and Mae Pettie, Claudia Harris and other beloved family friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Coleman II and Jermina Coleman; his sister, Delores Coleman; his son-in-law, Edward Harris Sr. and his great-grandson, A’Cariyon Perry.

Bobby will be deeply missed—his laughter, sense of humor, money-saving advice, strong work ethic, and ability to explain how to fix almost anything. The stories and memories he leaves behind will carry us forward. This hard-working and faithful servant will forever be cherished by those who loved him and adored him.