Robert "Bob" L. Sterling Jr.

Robert “Bob” L. Sterling Jr., 85, of Peru passed away on Friday, October 31, 2025 at Dukes Memorial Hospital.

He was born in Peru on September 9, 1940 to the late Robert L. and Betty (Kimpel) Sterling.

Bob graduated from Peru High School in 1959. He continued his education at Ball State University and then joined the United States Navy in 1960 where he served for 4 years. Bob worked as an engineer for Norfolk & Southern and also at Gen Corp.

He lived with Sherry Hartleroad since 1979 and later married her on May 27, 1994.

In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by his children; April (Sterling) Prater of Peru, Charles Hartleroad of Peru, Oko Hartleroad of Peru, Lin (Gabriella) Fisher of Dorset, UK, Lee (Angie) Fisher of Nashville, TN, a granddaughter that he raised, Jaelyn Hartleroad of Warsaw, 12 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, sister, Susan Sterling of Iowa, a niece, Heather Jenneman of Pacific Junction, Iowa, his aunt, Mary Jane Sterling of Haller, Kentucky, and 3 cousins, Kent, Beverly, and Beth.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of life will be held at The Eagles, 56 North Grant Street, Peru, IN, on November 17, 2025 from 5:00 P.M-8:00 P.M.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

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