Robert "Bob" L. Belau

Bob was born on October 29, 1934 to Emery and Ethel Belau in Oakwood, Ohio.  After 78 wonderful years, Bob passed away in Tavares, Florida (while being treated for cancer).  He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol L. (Andrews) Belau of Oakwood, Ohio.  Bob and Carol were blessed with three children, Kent (Becky) Belau, Granville, Ohio, Keith (Julie) Belau, Defiance, Ohio and Kay Belau Green, Savannah, GA.

He was the devoted grandfather of Katie (Josh) Armstrong, Kylie Belau, Kristopher Belau, Kassady (Laura) Belau, Kennan Belau, Kurt Belau, Karlton Green, Kaila Green and Kasey Green.  He was fortunate to have one great grandson, Kameron Belau and one nephew Richard Gype, Seattle, Wa.  Bob was well known throughout the area for growing Belau melons. He began growing his melon fame at the age of 12 and his 2013 season is still on schedule.

After serving in the United States Army he returned to Oakwood.  In 1960 he expanded his love for making things grow, by founding Bob & Carol's Greenhouse, followed by a flower shop in Continental.  In 1968, Bob embarked on his next challenge by purchasing Kircher's Flowers Inc. in Defiance.  Soon Kircher's Flowers,  by Bob and Carol was serving Defiance, Continental, Paulding and Napoleon.
He was a longtime member of St. John's United Church of Christ, Paulding County Farm Bureau, the Ohio Florist Association, and a lifetime member at the Elk's Lodge.

Bob was preceded in death by his infant daughter Kim Ellyn, sister and brother-in-law Mary Ann and Richard Gype, nephew Jeff Gype, and parents Emery and Ethel Belau.

Bob has left behind an amazing legacy of love.  He will be remembered for his infectious laugh and his larger than life personality.  Many lives were touched by this wonderful man, and many melons were enjoyed!

Services will be at 11:00 am Saturday, April 13, 2013, at St. John UCC, with Alfred "Sam" Schroeder officiating. Visitation will be held at Schaffer Funeral Home on Friday, April 12, 2013 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm & Saturday, April 13, 2013 10:00 am - 11:00 am at the church.