Robert Lee "Bob" Donica

Robert Lee “Bob” Donica, 93, of Columbus, passed away at his home on Thursday, October 29, 2026. Bob was born January 1, 1933, in Columbus to Ira Clyde Donica and Verla N. Rutan Donica. He married Sandra June McFall on July 19, 1980.

Bob graduated from Columbus High School on 7th Street in 1951. While still in high school, he joined the reserves at Bakalar Air Base, beginning his service to his country at an early age. He proudly served as a veteran of the United States Air Force.

Much of Bob’s working life was devoted to building and business. Over the years, he owned several businesses, including Donica Transfer & Storage and a yogurt shop in Punta Gorda, Florida. His primary career, however, was as a home builder and developer. Bob took great pride in the many homes he built throughout Columbus and in the development of South Hill Farm Estates, leaving a lasting contribution to the growth and character of the community. Through his work, he earned the respect of many who knew him as a man who could be counted on to do things the right way.

Beyond his work, Bob was known for his steady presence and the many ways he remained involved in the life of his community. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, where his faith was an important part of his life.

Bob is survived by his children, Annette (Tim) Donica Blythe of Nashville, Indiana, Cindy Donica of Columbus, Indiana, Tim (Chris) Donica of Columbus, Indiana, Matt (Robin) Donica of Columbus, Indiana, and Paul (Amy) Donica of Franklin, Indiana; his stepbrother, Dave Williamson; five stepchildren; his grandchildren, Jessica Peace-Blythe, Tyler Blythe, Hannah Milan, Jodi (Ryan) Wren, Lori (Kaden) Taylor, Payton Donica, Gabrielle Donica, Lillian Donica, Katlyn (Shay) Kuyper, Trent (Morgan) Westmeyer, Sydney Donica, Anna Donica, Emily (Josh) Hall, Cole (Michelle) Donica, and Isabelle Donica; his great-grandchildren, Delilah, Owen, Aden, Henley, Lily, Bode, Jaden, and Layla; and several step grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sandra, who passed away on April 26, 2013; his sons-in-law, Joey Giles and Jerry Milan; and his sisters, Kathryn Oyer and Margaret Rager.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 6045 E. State Street, Columbus, IN 47201, with Pastor Doug Bauman officiating. Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, November 2, 2026, at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory, 3855 25th Street, Columbus, IN 47203, and one hour prior to the service Tuesday at the church.

Bob will be laid to rest beside his wife, Sandra, at Garland Brook Cemetery, with full military honors provided by the Bartholomew County Veteran Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.