Robert ("Bob") V. Molenda, age 77, passed away on May 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with Lewy body dementia and acute leukemia.

Born and raised in South Bend, Indiana, Bob graduated from Washington High School in 1966 and went on to attend Indiana University. At just 21, he began what would become a lifelong career at Lincoln Financial. That career took him from South Bend to Evansville—where he met his beloved wife of 45 years, Donna—then on to Indianapolis and Cleveland before finally settling in Cincinnati in 1984.

Bob was a kind, generous, and loving man. A natural storyteller, he had a gift for making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. Whether hosting a dinner party, hiking across Europe or reminiscing over a glass of wine, he brought warmth and laughter to every gathering. He was a dedicated fan of Notre Dame football, an admirer of vintage cars, a connoisseur of fine wine, a loyal friend to many, a devoted family man and impeccably dressed, no matter the occasion.

Bob is survived by his wife Donna; his sons Frank (Nicole) and John (Courtney); and his grandchildren, Monroe and Rhett. He is also survived by his siblings Kathy Pence and Debbie Fox of South Bend, Mike Molenda of Chicago, and Becky Malmquist of Grand Rapids. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Dolores Molenda.

A visitation will be held at Gilligan Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 20, from 4pm–6pm. A private family service will follow at All Saints Church on Wednesday, May 21 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bob's memory to the SPCA of Cincinnati .

SPCA of Cincinnati
11900 Conrey Rd, Cincinnati OH 45249
Web: https://www.spcacincinnati.org/donate-now/