With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Glenn Reef, who entered eternal rest on July 8, 2025, at the age of 87 in Kokomo, Indiana.
Bob was born on January 27, 1938, to Russel and Aliene (Myers) Reef. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved brothers, Ray and Joe Reef; his sister, Dorothy (Reef) Bradley; his cherished grandson, Micah Kercheval; and his son-in-law, Matthew Brady. He now joins them in the peace of Heaven. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Joyce Ann Reef (Davis) sister Sue Strange (Reef) and several children, grandchildren listed below.
A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Bob served his country honorably from 1957 to 1961. His service was a defining chapter in a life marked by purpose, discipline, and quiet strength. Following his military service, he built a remarkable 30+ year career as a fleet test engineer for Delco, traveling extensively across the U.S. and Canada to test new parts for GM vehicles. He especially enjoyed his time at the desert proving grounds in Arizona and the cold-weather testing facilities in Canada. Bob found joy in inviting his children and grandchildren to join him on these work adventures, sharing with them his love for the open road and innovation. Of all the places his work took him, San Diego remained his favorite — a place he talked about often.
Bob’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted follower of Christ, with a steadfast and active faith that carried him through every season. Over the years, he worshiped and served at Living Word Fellowship in Frankfort, Fresh Start Ministries in Kokomo. Most recently he enjoyed watching online services led by his grandsons Caleb Howe and Karl Kercheval. He always held a special place in his heart for Lighthouse Tabernacle in Massillon, Ohio — his “home away from home” church, where his best friend and brother-in-law, Bishop Harold Strange, pastored until his passing in 2023.
The love story of Bob and Joyce Ann (Davis) Reef is one for the ages. Bob often said she swept him off his feet — her beauty, her grace, and the way she glided across the dance floor left an impression on his heart that never faded. Their song was “Earth Angel,” and to Bob, Joyce truly was his earth angel. Every morning began the same way — Bob praying over Joyce before enjoying his oatmeal breakfast, devotional time, and a steady dose of Fox News. His quiet daily routine was a reflection of his deep devotion to his wife, his faith, and the values he held dear.
Together, Bob and Joyce built a family filled with love, strength, and unwavering faith. They shared five beautiful children: Robin Reef, Patty Wells, Gordon Reef (Angela), Tracy Reef, and Russ Reef (Katrina). In addition, Bob lovingly stepped into the role of father for his granddaughter Autumn Brady, whom he cherished like his own.
He was a proud grandfather to Jessica Kercheval (Karl), Richard and Steven Wells, Morgan Fullum (Tyrel), Caleb Howe (Jessica), Makenzi Howe, Josh Reef, Kristin, Kayla Blackburn (Casey). His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Alexis Snell (Matthew), Regan Brady (Reyn Smith), London and Jordan Brady, Bronson, Kohen and Lincoln Kercheval, Reece and Hudson Fullum, Delaney and Kadence Howe, Natalie Reef, Trinity Reef, Ronan Pettis, Mya and Chloe Blackburn. He was recently overjoyed to welcome the first of his great-great-grandchildren Zayah and Skye Snell — the newest lights of his life.
Bob had a lifelong love for history, especially books on the Civil War and the founding fathers of America. He was a faithful reader to the end, often swapping between scripture, historical biographies, and his favorite gun magazines. In the early 1990s, Bob joined the Promise Keepers movement, pledging to lead his family with faith, integrity, and purpose — a pledge he kept every day of his life.
One of Bob’s favorite hobbies was sharing his love of guns, gun history, and target shooting with his sons and grandsons — a passion that brought generations together. He was thrilled to still be enjoying this hobby in the final weeks of his life, including a shooting day and a memorable trip to Cabela’s that will forever hold treasured memories.
A quiet man with a strong presence, Bob will be remembered for his anxious care and unwavering love for his family, always prayerful attitude and his ability to claim he was “blessed” in every situation. He was a man of his word, a humble servant, and a guiding light whose influence will live on for generations.
As we celebrate his life, we rejoice in knowing that Bob Reef is now at rest in the arms of his Savior, surrounded by those who have gone before him, and watching over those he loved so dearly.
“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” – 2 Corinthians 5:8
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
A funeral service celebrating Bob’s life will take place at 10:30 am on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Stout & Son Funeral Home, 200 E Main St, Russiaville, with Pastor Nick Strange officiating. Burial will follow in Russiaville Cemetery, with military honors provided by the United States Navy and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team. Friends may visit with the family from 4 pm to 7 pm on Monday July 14, 2025, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to help assist the family with final expenses. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.