Robert E. Beerbower, 76, of Rockford, died at 11:55 p.m. Jan. 24, 2009, at Van Wert County Hospital.

He was born Feb. 29, 1932, in Rockford, to Hale O. and Mary E. Buel Beerbower. On Dec. 20, 1953, he married Evelyn J. French, who survives.

Other survivors are, two sons, Michael (Kathy Jo), Mishawaka, Ind., and Bart (Lorie), Rockford; three daughters, Terri (Dan) Thompson, Palm Coast, Fla., Kathy (Jim) Bransteter, Celina, and Pam (David) "Snuffy" Smith, Rockford; 16 grandchildren and a great-grandson.

Deceased is a brother, William.

Services are 10 a.m. Wednesday at New Horizons Community Church, Rockford, the Rev. Eric Muhlenkamp officiating, with Rev. Mark Rutledge assisting. Burial is at Riverside Cemetery, Rockford.

Calling is 2-8 p.m. Tuesday and one hour prior to service on Wednesday at the church.

Contributions can be made to Gideons, Grace Missionary Church, Celina, or Camp Cotubic, Bellefontaine.

Condolences can be sent to ketchamripleyfh@embarqmail.com.