Richard H Bohde's Obituary
Richard “Dick” Henry Bohde, 86, of Fort Wayne, passed away on September 5, 2015 at Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. He was born April 26, 1929 in Ft. Wayne to the late Elmer and Ella (Ehlerding) Bohde where his family had a farm on Stellhorn Rd. Dick’s father, Elmer, later developed the farm into a residential community, Bohde Grove. A retired salesman from GE, where he worked for more than 30 years, Dick almost never had a bad day. With his amicable nature and genuine good spirits, he excelled at appliance sales and reached the position of Regional Manager. His career at GE also led to several moves – South Bend IN, Indianapolis IN , Fairfield OH and Naperville IL. He and his wife, Lois, also traveled the world with GE, hosting trips to Spain, Hawaii and Jamaica. Dick served in the military in the US Marine Corps during the Korean War, reaching the rank of sergeant. He graduated from Valparaiso University and North Side High School in Ft. Wayne. Dick retired at Lake George in Coldwater, MI, where he and his wife built a new home on the site of the long-time Bohde cottage. It’s there Dick and his family enjoyed many beautiful boat rides and sunsets, and developed deep and lasting friendships. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont, IN. He met the love of his life, Lois (Gimbel), at Valparaiso and they were married in 1952. They enjoyed 59 years together until Lois died in 2012. Throughout his life, Dick was a strong supporter of Valpo where he was a member of the Kretzmann Society. Dick is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Tobiaski and son-in-law Len Tobiaski of Hoffman Estates, IL. He was also preceded in death by son, Matthew Bohde, and brother, Edward Bohde. He was a beloved father, father-in-law, godfather, uncle, great uncle, cousin and friend to many. Graveside service is 2:30 pm Friday at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery, E. State Blvd & Maysville Rd. Fort Wayne, followed by burial. The Reverend Wayne Berkesch officiating. Memorial service is 11:00 am on Saturday at Peace Lutheran Church, 355 IN-120, Fremont, IN. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for memorials to Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont, IN or Valparaiso University. Arrangements by E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven.
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