Robert Lee France

Robert Lee France, 89, of Pierceton, passed away on March 11, 2026, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana in Fort Wayne. Born on September 21, 1936, in Marion, Indiana, to Martha France, he graduated from Marion High School, where he excelled as an athlete, particularly in basketball. He later attended college and worked for General Motors in Marion for 30 years, retiring as a supervisor. On March 1, 1959, he married the love of his life, Lou Jane Spencer, and together they shared many happy years.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Robert followed the Marion Giants and enjoyed watching or playing any sport. He was actively involved at First Baptist Church in Marion, where he coached basketball, and in later years attended College Wesleyan Church with his family. He found his greatest joy at the family lake house in North Webster, where he welcomed his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for bonfires, fishing, tubing, and countless cherished memories. In his later years, he also took pleasure in tending his lawn, peaceful drives, and participating in activities at the YMCA.

Robert is survived by his daughters, Kimberlee (Jon) McPike of Tennessee and Kara (Doug) Carter of Marion, Indiana; seven grandchildren, Jessika (Michael) Richards, Jennifer (Mauricio) Bobino, Hannah Carter, Jordan McPike, Nathan Carter, Jaimee (Caleb) Smith, and Jared McPike; four great-grandchildren, Kaden Richards, Keagan Richards, Mavric Bobino, and Miles Bobino; and one great-grandchild, baby boy Richards, expected in May. He is also survived by his sisters, Judy Thompson, Tonya McCormick, and Susan Flannigan, and his special friend Linda Wirick, who cared for him with kindness, preparing meals and sharing quiet evenings watching movies.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Martha France; his wife, Lou Jane France; and his sisters, Carolyn Whittaker, Linda Ray, and Marilyn Mae. Robert will be remembered for his devotion to family, his love of sports, his steady presence, and the joy he found in simple moments shared with those he loved.