Robert Freeman Plattner

Growing up in Chicago, Robert lived in the upstairs attic apartment with his mother and brother in his grandparents’ home. He loved telling stories of those early years and the many adventures he found there—memories carried forward with a thoughtful warmth and a mind that never stopped noticing the details that made life worth retelling.

After graduating high school, Robert joined the U.S. Navy, traveling the globe aboard a destroyer where he worked in the engine room. Following his military service, he married the love of his life, Betty May Abbott, in 1955. Together, they raised three children: Douglas, Craig, and Susan.

Robert brought intelligence and care to his work, beginning as a draftsman at Interlake Steel in Chicago Heights and later being promoted to engineer. When opportunity called, he moved his family to Michigan to lead the engineering department at Bastian Blessing, then to Tennessee to work for Quality Industries, and eventually to Fort Wayne, where he retired from Lincoln, Food Service Products Inc.

Beyond career, Robert’s days were enriched by pursuits that reflected both curiosity and quiet daring. A private pilot, he loved flying his family around the Midwest in his Piper Cherokee—continuing into his 80s and proudly belonging to the United Flying Octogenarians. He was also an avid audiophile who took deep enjoyment in listening to music, sharing that passion with his son Craig and with anyone willing to sit and truly listen. Model trains were another delight; he built a large layout and loved running the trains for his grandchildren.

Above all, Robert will be remembered for his generous heart, deep love for his family, a positive outlook on life, and his ability to regale everyone with a good story.

Robert is survived by his children, Craig (Cami) Plattner and Susan Plattner; grandchildren, Aaron Plattner and Rain (Thomas Collins) Plattner; and great-grandchild, Fern Collins; along with extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Plattner; his son, Douglas Plattner; his parents; and his brother, Fred Plattner.

Funeral service will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, June 14, 2026 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Covington Knolls, 8325 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, IN, 46804 with visitation two hours prior. Robert will be laid to rest at 2:00pm on Monday, June 15, 2026 at Beverly Cemetery, 12000 S. Kedzie Ave, Blue Island, IL 60406.

Memorial contributions in Robert's memory may be directed toward the American Cancer Society at cancer.org/dignitymemorial.