Robert P. Foster, 87, longtime resident of Wolcott, passed away at 11:38 p.m. Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at St. Elizabeth East Medical Center, Lafayette.

He was born June 24, 1930 in Greensburg, Indiana to the late Charles W. and Lucille A. (Phillips) Foster. He was a 1948 graduate of Wolcott High School and a 1951 graduate of the Indiana Mortuary School.

Bob’s father purchased the funeral home in Wolcott in 1932 and Bob assumed responsibility for it in 1951. Between Bob and his father they owned the funeral home for 75 years making it one of the oldest businesses in White County. For 55 years he served the community with kindness and compassion. The families he served were more than customers they were friends and family. Bob exemplified what it meant to be a Christian through his honesty and service to others.

Of interest, before small towns had ambulance services the funeral homes acted in that capacity. Even into the late 1960’s Mr. Foster, like his father before him, would respond to accidents and other health emergencies shuttling people to the hospital.

His marriage was to Roxie Marie Jackson on August 4, 1957 at the Wolcott United Methodist Church in Wolcott; she preceded him in death on February 24, 1977. He later married Linda A. Capuano on October 27, 1985 also in the Wolcott United Methodist Church; she survives.

Mr. Foster was a member of the Wolcott United Methodist Church but attended Palestine Christian Church. He was a 50 year member of the Wolcott Masonic Lodge #180, where he was a Past Master and a longtime member of the Scottish Rite. He was also affiliated with the Wolcott Eastern Star #171.

Bob was a founding member of the Wolcott Summer Festival which originated in 1969. The July 4th yearly celebration has created 50 years of community spirit and good will for the town. He was heavily involved in many and all aspects of carrying on this tradition.

Mr. Foster was also one of the founders of the Anson Wolcott Historical Society where he held many offices; a 55 year member of the Indiana Funeral Directors Association, served on the Wolcott Town Board for 16 years and was instrumental for bringing a doctor to the town.

He is a former member of the Wolcott Progressive Club, official scorekeeper for the Wolcott High School basketball team for many years; was the Indiana Bicentennial torch bearer for Princeton Township. Was the 1st recipient of the Roger Wolcott memorial cup recognizing outstanding community service. Bob was on the Veterans Memorial Committee to erect a monument honoring those from the Wolcott community that served the country.

In his spare time Bob enjoyed working in the yard, playing golf and following Indiana Hoosier men’s basketball, Notre Dame football and the Cubs, Colts and Bears.

Surviving with his wife, Linda are his children; Steven C. Foster of Bellbrook, OH and Sharon M. Foster of West Lafayette and a brother, Ronald L. Foster of Wolcott. Bob loved spending time with his family especially his granddaughter, Cassie.

Preceding him in death are his parents Charles and Lucille and his first wife Roxie.

A masonic service is to be held at 3:45 p.m. with visitation to follow until 8 p.m. Friday, October 20, 2017 at Foster-Clapper Funeral Home. Visitation also from 9 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Palestine Christian Church (7275 West 400 North Wolcott, IN); Pastor Guy Brown to officiate. Interment to follow in Meadow Lake Cemetery, Wolcott.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Wolcott Summer Festival.

Share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com