Robert D. Kostbade "Bob", age 88, a lifelong resident of Hobart, Indiana passed away December 8, 2013 after battling a lingering illness. He was born on August 23, 1925 in Hobart to the late Louis and Esther Kostbade. He retired from U.S. Steel Gary Works in 1986, after 31 years of service. He was drafted to the U.S. Army in 1943 and served his country until 1946. He attained the rank of Platoon Sargent at the age of 19, while serving in the Ardennes during the Battle of the Bulge. He was a member of Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge (VBOB). He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Hobart, Indiana.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Clarabelle, 2 sons, Robert (Lynn) Kostbade, Gary (Christine) Kostbade, Seven Grandchildren, Natalie (Michael Shapiro), Kelly (Dave) Barrasas, Robert (Christine) Kostbade, David (Holli) Kostbade , Gary R. Kostbade, Colin R. Kostbade and Thomas C. Kostbade and seventeen great grandchildren Jordan, Samantha, Jacob and Nicholas Farber, Taylor, Luke and Michael Shapiro, David Kostbade, Erin, Elizabeth, Jack, Zachary, Olivia and Ryan Barrasas, Peyton, Cole and Cash Kostbade; several nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Esther Kostbade, Brother, Kenneth, Sisters Bernice, (Charles) Moore, Ruth (John) Small, and Shirley (Edward) Hayslip and two infant sons, Michael and Kent.

Funeral services are Thursday, December 12, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. at Rees Funeral Home, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart with Pastor Gary Nagy officiating. Burial will follow at Graceland Cemetery in Valparaiso. Visitation is being held Wednesday, December 11, 2013 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel. Call (219) 942-2109 or visit us online at www.Reesfuneralhomes.com.