Robert C. Mennen

Date of Death: June 8, 2010

Robert C. Mennen, 84, of Lafayette, died at 12:25 a.m. Tuesday, June 8, 2010, at St. Elizabeth Central.
Born April 21, 1926, in Lafayette, he was the son of the late Elmer and Gertrude Bryan Mennen.
He graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School, attended Indiana State University and Notre Dame, and served in the Navy during World War II.
On Oct. 12, 1946, he married Betty Swatts Mennen in Lafayette, and she survives.
He started Mennen Real Estate in 1964, and in 1976 he joined Century 21 and became Mennen Century 21 Realty. He retired in 2001.
Mr. Mennen was a lifetime member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, and served in various positions on the church council over the years. He was a member of Beta Phi Sigma, served on the Board of Tippecanoe County Building Trades and Home With Hope, and was past president of Lafayette Board of Realtors.
He enjoyed gardening, watching his grandchildren play baseball and spending time with his family.
Surviving with his wife are his children, Julie A. Goodin (husband: John W.) of Marietta, Ga., David R. Mennen (wife: Kim) and Douglas R. Mennen (wife: Kym), both of Lafayette; and a brother, Gordon L. Mennen of Iowa.
Also surviving are 9 grandchildren, Janae Howell, John R. Goodin, James W. Goodin, Katie Davis, Brittany Mennen, Kaitlyn Mennen, David Mennen, Leighton Mennen and Jerrick Mennen. He was preceded in death by brother, Kenneth E. Mennen.
Visitation 5-8 p.m. Friday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd. Service 1 p.m. Saturday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, Pastor David Doane officiating. Interment at Rest Haven Memorial Park. Those wishing may contribute to the Beta Phi Sigma or Home With Hope.

Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc.

Light a candle Light a candle

See Condolences

I was out of town this past week and out of touch. I came home to find that Bob had passed away. I saw him just a week or two ago walking across the parking lot at Realty Group. I didn&t try to engage him in conversation, but only waved and said hi. How I wish I had taken the time to visit with him. I always enjoyed him so; he was always so upbeat and genuinely interested in others.

I considered Bob to be one of the most memorable men in my life. He was the main reason I chose to come to Lafayette when I got my real estate license. I was acquainted with Davi Arrington, and she told me that Bob was the ONLY person for whom I should work. She actually helped set up my initial interview with him. When my son, Darryl, graduated from high school and was looking for a summer job, Bob kept him busy, and started him on a lifetime career path as well.

Bob never disappointed me. I found him to be honest and straightforward in all my dealings with him, both business and personal. He would always stand behind me. I was always proud to say that I worked with Century 21 Mennen. And I knew that if I needed anything: advice, a referral, or whatever, Bob would help me out in any way he could. The world needs more people like Bob. He will truly be missed.

Donna Stock

I was sorry to read about Bob&s death. I grew up on McCarty Lane next to Bennett&s Greenhouse on a farm (no longer there) that bordered his parent&s home on Creasy Lane. Bob was our school bus driver. My parents were Marvin & Lucy Yoder, and Elmer and Gertrude were like grandparents to my siblings and me. The Mennens dressed chickens for us. Elmer was our school bus driver, and when he retired, Bob took his place.

You have my sympathy. I hope your many family memories will help you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Yoder

We are so sorry to hear of your sudden loss. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Betty, Julie, and the entire family. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
Dick and Jane LeRoy

My thoughts and prayers are with you. May the unfailing love of Jesus bring peace to you hearts.
Marilyn Weber
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

I have known Bob since 1980. From dealing w/him personally and professionally, I found him to always fair and equally nice. Heaven has gained a great servant. My condolences to his family. God bless all of you..

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers as you go through your loss. Let God console you and trust in Him.

Yours Truly,

Whitney and Nathan

I am so sorry to hear about Bob&s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Love, Linda

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.