It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Robert "Bob" Carl Lehman — beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather — who died peacefully on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the age of 89, with his family by his side.

Born in Blue Lake, Indiana to Carl Lehman and Olive Pearl Carter, Bob grew up primarily in Fort Wayne, Indiana and built the early part of his life in the place that shaped him. He began his career as an engineer and draftsman at International Harvester, at which time he also served in the United States Air Force National Guard. Ultimately, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to the restaurant business, owning and franchising many establishments, but was best known for “Famous Fish of Stroh”. He also had a love for real estate, investing in Indiana and Florida. For many years, Bob also enjoyed being a softball pitcher in leagues across Indiana, where his wife, Marilyn, and daughters, Sheryl & Sandy, cheered him on from the stands.

Over the decades, life took Bob and Marilyn from Indiana to Florida and, most recently, to South Carolina. Wherever they went, he brought the same calm, grounded presence with him. He loved lake boating, golfing, and the company of animals of every kind, making “pets” of many — though poodles always held a special place in his heart. His quiet demeanor would often produce a perfectly timed one-liner, and cause a roll of laughter. He had a famous sweet tooth, allowing family and friends to indulge him with home baked treats, and he always welcomed an apple fritter or a bowl of ice cream.

While Bob will be remembered by many for his warmth, his wit, and his easy company, those who knew him best knew that his family was everything to him. They were his greatest pride and his deepest joy. He was a devoted husband to Marilyn for nearly six decades, and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose gentle nature was always there to listen, laugh with you, and hold your hand. He joined the Catholic faith in 2009 and was a member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Seneca, SC, regularly enjoying mass and parish activities.

Bob is survived by his wife, Marilyn Lehman; his daughters, Sheryl Zavertnik (Tom) and Sandy Falter (Dan); his grandchildren: Brian Zavertnik (Megan), Robert Zavertnik (Ana), Joseph Zavertnik (Anne), Kristen McKeon (Nate), Mark Zavertnik, Kelsey Falter, Erin Diodato (Nicholas), Maggie Falter, and Hannah Cortes (Eduardo); his ten great-grandchildren; and his brother, Jack Lehman. He was preceded in death by his sister, Debbie Brown.

As we navigate this loss, we are grateful for the love, prayers, and memories shared by all who knew him. We are honored to carry forward the generous love he gave us. He lived a long, full, and blessed life — and he was deeply loved.

A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Wednesday, July 8th at 9:30 am at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Seneca, SC. In lieu of flowers, donations of funds or supplies can be made to Crossroads Animal Rescue in Seneca, SC. Please visit https://crossroadsanimalrescue.org/donate/. 

Brown Funerals is assisting the family.