John Robert Runge

John Robert Runge, “Bob”, beloved husband, father, and “Gramps”, went home to heaven to be reunited with his Savior on June 19, 2026 in Columbus, Indiana, at the age of 89.

Bob was born on June 11, 1937, in Columbus, Indiana, to Frank F. and Alma Runge. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Frank M. Runge, and his sister, Mary Evelyn Mellencamp.

Bob graduated from Columbus High School and went on to graduate from Franklin College. He later received his MBA from Indiana University.

Bob was very proud of his time serving his country in the Air Force Reserves. He served as Sergeant and Airplane Mechanic. He had a life long love passion of mechanics and engineering. He loved to work on engines and had a passion for airplanes of all kinds.

Bob built a respected career in finance, served as a finance manager at Cummins and Arvin, and then retired from Seymour Tubing.

Faith and music were important parts of Bob’s life. He was a great man of faith. He was the cornerstone of his family. He set an example for his entire family that all wanted to live by. He was a member at several local churches throughout his life. Bob was a member, children’s choir director, and adult choir director at Grace Lutheran Church. This is where he met his beautiful wife, Marilyn. He was also a member of St. Peters Lutheran Church. Bob served as Head of the Congregation and participated in the adult choir. He shared his passion for singing with his daughters and inspired a love for singing and music with his daughters and grandchildren. Bob cherished his time as a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and choir. He was also active in the Columbus Arts Guild and the Madrigal Singers, where his appreciation for the arts found meaningful expression and fostered deep friendships.

Bob also enjoyed giving his time to his children’s activities. He volunteered at swim meets, served on the Donner Swim Club Board, and traveled across the US for swim camps and swim meets, offering encouragement and support. He cheered on his grandchildren in all of their sports, including basketball, lacrosse, football, figure skating, swimming, cross country, track and field, and soccer.

Bob and Marilyn were avid travelers. They shared this love of travel with their children and grandchildren. Their adventures led them to Florida, Hawaii, California, Colorado, many state parks, Europe ( multiple trips to Germany), Japan, and countless trips to see grandchildren all over the United States.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marilyn Runge, whom he adored and to whom he was completely devoted; his daughters, Kristin Clancy and her husband John, Katrina de Moura Belo and Joao Belo, and Korinne Eubank and her husband Tony; and his grandchildren, Maddie Clancy, Thomas Clancy, Amalia de Moura Belo, Elise Eubank, Harrison Eubank, and Adeline Eubank.

Bob will be remembered for his infectious smile, his optimism, his faith, and his devotion to his family. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family values, integrity, wisdom, kindness and quiet strength that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Services celebrating Bob’s life will be held on Monday June 22, 2026 at Noon in St. Paul Lutheran Church with Pastor Doug Bauman officiating. Following the service, he will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family beginning at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made payable to St. Paul Lutheran Church to either the Music Fund or the Building Fund. The church will host a meal post burial for all who would like to attend. A recording of the service will be posted after the service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory. You are invited to share a favorite memory of Bob, view his video tribute and sign the online guestbook via the funeral home website: www.jewellrittman.com.