Robert "Bobby" Edwin Ochs

We celebrate the life of Robert Edwin Ochs (Bobby), who entered into the presence of the Lord and Savior on July 19, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born on May 8, 1939, Bobby lived a life that reflected the words of Matthew 6:33. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Above all else, Bobby put God first. His unwavering faith guided every aspect of his life, and he served as a devoted prayer warrior, lifting up his family, friends, church, and countless others in prayer. Those who knew him found strength, encouragement, and comfort in his steadfast faith and trust in the Lord.

A 1957 graduate of North Vernon HS and a proud veteran of the United States Air Force Reserve operating as Crew Chief of a C-119, who served his country with honor before dedicating his life to his Savior and family.

Bobby met the love of his life, Janet Porter Blackburn, at Georgetown College. They exchanged vows on October 22, 1960, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey that would span over 65 years. Together, they built a Christ-centered home grounded in love, faith, commitment, and grace, and built a successful TV business, Bob Ochs TV and Electronics. Their marriage stood as a testament to God’s unwavering faithfulness and an inspiration to all who knew them.

Bobby was a loving father to four children, Rodney Ochs (Dana), Jon Ochs (Kelli), Amy Pettit (Jim), and Jenny Martin (Jason). His family grew over time through 14 grandchildren, Amanda Cragun (Brandon), Olivia Reynolds (Luke), Riley Ochs (Nicole), Braden Ochs (Victoria), Justin Pettit (Hannah), Calvin Ochs (Bethany), Joshua Pettit (Kylee), Graham Martin, Joel Pettit (Dana), Dawson Ochs, Grady Martin (Mackenzie), Emmi Ochs, Garrison Martin, and Grayer Martin; and 9 great-grandchildren. His greatest desire was that each member of his family would know and follow Jesus Christ. He wanted everyone to know that they were loved and cherished by Jesus and made sure each great-grandchild knew this by singing Jesus Loves Me early in life. His legacy is not only found in the generations he leaves behind but also in the faith he modeled every day.

He will be remembered as turning to God in prayer through every situation while not missing an opportunity to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Bobby is survived by his wife, Janet Ochs, his four children, 14 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 2 brothers. He is preceded in death by his parents, Dorrell and Marguerite Ochs, and his great-granddaughter Kamdyn.

His family rejoices in knowing that he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and now rests in the eternal presence of his savior.

The family is deeply grateful for the kindness, comfort, and compassionate care provided by the Schneck Hospice team supporting Bobby and Janet. In their honor, memorial gifts may be made to the Schneck Foundation’s Greatest Needs Fund to support the highest priorities and help continue exceptional care for our communities or to The Gideons International.

A funeral service for Bobby will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the First Baptist Church in North Vernon with the Rev. Dan Barringer and Rev. Paul Bowman officiating. The visitation for family and friends will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the Dove-Sharp & Rudicel Funeral Home and Cremation Service and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the Church.

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