William Robert Hart

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of William Robert Hart at the age of 88, who died peacefully on December 16, 2024 at Ashford Place in Shelbyville, IN. Bill was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend who lived a life rich in love, wisdom, and kindness.

Born on July 7, 1936, Bill was a life-long resident of Shelbyville. He graduated in 1954 from Shelbyville High School and was Senior Class President. He attended Indiana University and was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. He was a Chief Warrant Officer in the US Army Reserves from 1956 – 1968. After high school, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Mary Kay Lux, and worked at the family business, Bausback Corporation, for over 30 years. Bill was Vice-President of Sales and Operations at Bausback’s, retiring in 1986 when the business was sold after 103 years of family ownership. His career at Bausback’s was marked by hard work, compassion, and comradery with all the employees.

In addition to his professional life had a deep commitment to community service. He served on the Shelbyville School Board and was a long-standing board director for Farmers Bank and Forest Hill Cemetery. He was past president of the Shelbyville Lions Club and the Shelby County Shrine Club. He was member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, Columbia Club, and Murat Shrine. Later in life, his membership in “The Bills Club” would be one of his fondest endeavors.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 67 year, Mary Kay; son Jeff (Rhonda) and daughter Ann (Ed) Evans. His joy and pride were his grandchildren: Eddie,Will, and Katie Evans; and Lauren (Kyle) Strash, Allison Hart, and Alex (Mary) Hart. He was blessed with four great-grandchildren; Rivers and Brin Strash; and Leland and Bennett Scally. His legacy will live on in the lessons he taught his family. 

Calling hours will be from 4:30 to 6:30 pm, Friday, December 20, 2024 at Freeman Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 South Harrison St. in Shelbyville, with the rosary recited at 4:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be on 10 am, Saturday, December 21, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 125 E. Broadway St., Shelbyville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund. 

Interment will be at Forest Hill Cemetery in Shelbyville. 

The family would like to express their gratitude to the care givers at Ashford Place and Anew Hospice during his final days. His memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him.

Online condolences may be shared with Bill’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.