Robert Lincoln Childs, 69, of Madison, was born in Jefferson County, Indiana near Kent. He also lived in North Vernon and Whiteland, Indiana, and in Florida after college.
"Bob" was a much beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many. He enjoyed attending his 50th Southwestern High School Class Reunion in 2016, and was also inducted into Southwestern's Sports Hall of Fame in 2013, in recognition of achievements in Cross Country as 12th in the state, as well as leading his team to regional victories. His high school honored him with a "Robert Childs Day."
Bob attained numerous academic achievements, going on to be Most Valuable Player at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, attending school there for four years. Bob drove and engineered "the big rigs," traveling the country and working many years in California and Arkansas, and retiring from Toyota in Columbus, Indiana.
His many interests included environmental civil engineering, astronomy, bike-riding, college basketball, especially the University of Kentucky, and loved music. He was the proud grandfather of three young grandchildren with whom he spent a great deal of time. He enjoyed relaxing gatherings with family and friends.
Bob is survived by his wife, Gwen Gosman Childs, daughter Tirzah Childs-Biddinger and husband, Chris, of North Vernon, Indiana, stepson Gabriel Graham of Madison, grandchildren Charlie, August, and Nixie, sister, Patricia Berard and her husband, Lewis of Whiteland, Indiana, brother, William Childs and his wife, Cony of Greenwood, Indiana, and several nieces, great-nieces and great nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Elsie McCartney Childs, father, William Selbert Childs, daughter, Sally Willow Childs, and son, Adam Josiah Childs.
Mr. Ron Ford will conduct memorial services at 6:00 PM Friday, December 8, 2017 at Lytle Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, Vail Chapel, 117 Holt Drive, Madison.
Friends and family may call at the funeral home from 4:00 to 6:00 PM Friday.
The family requests memorial contributions be made to the American Kidney Fund. Contributions may be made at any of the Lytle Funeral Homes & Cremation Service locations.
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