Robert Seals

Robert G. "Sugarbear" Seals Feb. 14, 1950 - Nov. 1, 2015 SOUTH BEND - Robert G. "Sugarbear" Seals, 65, passed away peacefully at 12:29 am Sunday, November 1, 2015, in the Sanctuary at Holy Cross surrounded by loved ones. Robert was born on February 14, 1950, in Peoria, IL, to Phillip Gene and Mildred Maxine (Allen) Seals. When Bob was young he learned the upright bass, bass guitar, and vocals. He performed rock-and-roll and jazz in several bands throughout his lifetime. He performed in the MRQ (Modern Rock Quartet) during high school. It was then he became known to many as "Sugarbear." Later in his musical career he performed in several bands in the Michiana area including America's Stop, Chantilly Lace, Kern Creek Symphony, the Jimmy Foy Trio, and the Eddy Knight Band, to name a few. Bob also enjoyed singing in a barbershop quartet and was a former member of S.P.E.B.S.Q.S.A. This was a passion he shared with his father, Gene Seals. Bob enjoyed riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, antique cars, traveling, and piloting small planes. Bob was the owner-operator of Seals Coach Service for over thirty-one years before retiring. He touched many people's lives while in business when he would provide services and transportation for many local funeral homes. Bob was very caring and compassionate to the families he came into contact with. Bob is survived by his longtime companion and best friend, Denise Wetzel; his mother, Maxine Seals; his two daughters, Tamara (Jason) Chambers and Jacqueline (Scott) DeRosa; his son, Thomas (Michelle) Seals; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild; his brother, Tom (Jan) Kleppe and their children. He was proud not only to be a grandfather, but a great-grandfather as well. He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Seals. Zahoran Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. A memorial service will take place in the spring. Bob had a very big heart and loved animals. His family requests that any memorial contributions be made to Warren Township Volunteer Fire Department, South Bend Animal Control or to Pet Refuge. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.zahoran.com or the Zahoran Funeral Home Facebook page.