Robert Rooker

Rev. Robert Rooker, 88, of Greensburg, Indiana passed away November 8th at Morning Breeze. He was born June 4, 1921 in Indianapolis, Indiana, the son of Maurice R. and Ruth (Roberts) Rooker. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Margaret “Pat” Rooker; two sons, Lewis W. (Diane) Rooker, David P. (Rhonda) Rooker; a daughter Carol L. (David) Courtney; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two sisters Mrs. Martha Tedrowe and Mrs. Wilma (Albert) Tavenor. Preceding him in death were his mother and father, brother-in-law Robert Tedrowe, and niece Janet Tavenor Heath. Robert graduated from Manuel High School and Jordan Conservatory of Music in Indianapolis. He taught Band, Orchestra and Choral Music in Fort Wayne and Hamilton, Indiana before answering a call to ministry. He graduated from McCormick Seminary, Chicago and served pastorates in Indiana and Illinois. He spent nine years working for Church World Services in Elkhart, Indiana. His last pastorate was in Geetingsville, Indiana before retiring to Greensburg, Indiana. He was a member of the White Water Valley Presbytery, the Adult Center, and the Tree County Players. He was recently honored at First Presbyterian Church in Greensburg for his many years of service teaching, directing the Hand Bell choir, singing and playing, as well as filling the pulpit on occasion. He was chosen Hoosier of the Year by the Senior Center a few years back for his work serving as chaplain and board president. He is known locally for his singing and trumpet playing with “Lois and the Guys.” They played at many nursing homes as well as the yearly Christmas Open House at the Museum. He loved to entertain. A celebration of his life will be Saturday, November 14th at 2:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Greensburg, Indiana. Memorials may be given to Hospice of Decatur County or to the Greensburg or Geetingsville Presbyterian Churches.