Robert E. Phares

Robert E. Phares, 88, of Shelbyville, passed away Sunday, November 3, 2013 at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana in Columbus. He was born January 7, 1925, in Marion Township, Shelby County, the son of Chester R. and Edna (Theobald) Phares. He married his wife of 66 years, Marilyn Wendelboe, on March 22, 1947, and she survives. Other survivors include his sons, John R. (wife, Connie) Phares of Bloomington and James W. Phares of Indianapolis; brothers, Richard Phares of Rocklin, CA and Norman Phares of Colorado Springs, CO; step-grandchildren, Michelle (Eaton) Nolley and Michael Eaton; and step-greatgrandchildren, Matt Nolley, Heather (Nolley) Wilson, Ashley Nolley, Jackson Eaton, Sydney Eaton, Trenton Eaton and Camden Eaton. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Glen Phares, Harold Phares and Warren Phares; and sister, Freda Gunning. Robert graduated from Morristown High School in 1943. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving during World War II. Robert was an insurance claims executive with the designation of CPCU, retiring in 1988. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where he was a member of the Session. Robert was also a member of Shelby Masonic Lodge No. 28 F&AM, Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis, Murat Shrine Club, Shelby County Shrine Club, Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks Lodges in Shelbyville and Rushville, American Legion, past patron of Naamah Chapter of Eastern Star and the Sons of the American Revolution. He was an amateur radio operator with calls K9IJX, and enjoyed his many breakfasts with members of the radio club. Robert also enjoyed golfing, traveling, cars and meeting and visiting with friends. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, November 7, 2013 at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville, with a Masonic Service at 7:30 p.m. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 8, 2013 at the funeral home, with Rev. Mark Morningstar officiating. Interment will be in Forest Hill Cemetery, with military rites conducted by the local military committee. Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 124. W. Broadway St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176.