Robert “Bob” Russell Hearne, age 84, of Defiance, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 12, 1941, in Cincinnati (Cheviot), Ohio, to Russell Edward and Cecelia Marie (Kroll) Hearne.

Robert was the beloved husband of Monica (Hesselschwardt) Hearne, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful family and a lifetime of memories.

He was a devoted father to Duane (Melinda) Hearne, Nicholas (Paula) Hearne, Robin (William) Green, Russell (Angela) Hearne, and Chris (Leslie) Hearne. He was a proud grandfather to Eric Hearne, Bruce Hearne, Garrett Hearne, Lauren (Hearne) DeSmit, Sara Hearne, Nathan Hearne, Emily (Green) Trono, Ryan Green, Michael Green, Ethan Hearne, Braydon Hearne, Allison Hearne, and Bailey Hearne, and a cherished great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren, Amelia, Cyrus, and Ellie Hearne (fourth - baby Trono due in December).

Robert dedicated his working years to providing for his family. He worked as a lineman for Western Union, later worked for Romanoff Electric, and retired from General Motors in 1999 after 35 years of service as an electrician. He was a proud member of of the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 211.

He was an avid master gardener and took great pride in his greenhouse, where he lovingly grew his prized vegetables and geraniums. His greenhouse was his special place-a place where he could enjoy his love of gardening, tend to his plants, and take pride in all he grew. He also loved woodworking and carving, taking great pleasure in working with his hands and creating beautiful birds from a simple block of wood. He had a special place in his heart for his beloved cat, Miss Kitty, who was a cherished companion.

Those who knew Bob will remember his great sense of humor, his generous heart, and, of course, his generous side of good-natured sarcasm. He had a way with words and a collection of phrases that became unmistakably “Bob.” His family often found themselves translating what he really meant.

For example, when Bob said, “We will play it by ear,” the family knew the translation was usually: “I am done talking about it, and I have no plans on doing whatever was just discussed.”

When Bob was diagnosed with diabetes, he had his own interpretation of the diabetic diet: “If it tastes good, spit it out.” And then there was “Hon.” Bob called practically everyone “Hon.” We never quite figured out whether it was a genuine term of endearment or simply his way of making sure he never had to remember our names. Either way, if Bob called you “Hon,” you knew you were part of his world.

These were just a few of the many little things that made Bob uniquely Bob. His humor, quick wit, and unmistakable way of expressing himself brought countless smiles and laughs to those around him. His family will forever treasure the stories, sayings, and memories that made them laugh-and the love that was always underneath them.

Robert is survived by his wife, Monica; his children and their families; his grandchildren; his three great-grandchildren; and his sister, Lois Beyer, Cincinnati, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell Edward and Cecelia Marie Hearne, and his beloved grandchildren, Bruce Hearne, Olivia and Hilary Hearne, who both died in infancy.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson-Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance, with a Rosary Service at 7:00 pm. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, September 18 at Schaffer Funeral Home South, with Fr. John Stites officiating. Robert will be laid to rest in St. Isidore Cemetery, Marysdale.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the following charities in Bob’s memory. The family is grateful for your kindness and support in honoring his memory.

• CHP Hospice Inpatient - Defiance (6817 N OH-66, Defiance, OH 43512)

• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105)

• St. Joseph’s Indian School (1301 N. Main St., Chamberlain, SD 57325)