Robert Charles "Bob" Paddock Sr.

Robert "Bob" Charles Paddock, Sr., age 76, of Indianapolis, passed away on Friday morning, March 7, 2025, at his home.
Bob was born in Indianapolis on November 4, 1948, to the late Merle B. Paddock and Norma Nora (Noone) Paddock. He was a 1967 graduate of Manual High School. He was a proud veteran of The United States Army, a paratrooper 101st Airborne Division, serving his country in Vietnam and later in the Indiana National Guard. On April 7, 1973, he married the love of his life, Jo Ellen Graham, who survives him. Bob worked as a mechanic for many years, retiring from The US Postal Service.
Bob enjoyed working on cars, model trains, and volunteering for the church. He spent many hours tinkering in his garage or with his friends at the train club. Bob had an impressive train collection; but his ability to work the electrical and mechanics set him apart. In 2004 and 2005, Bob was a member of an Indianapolis team that competed in the DARPA Grand Challenge, a competition that resulted in some of the earliest technological development for autonomous vehicles. For many years, Bob also donated a great deal of time working on the auto/visual team for Southport Heights Christian Church. He was always happiest when working to fix something for friends and family. Jo often said it wasn't broken until Bob said it was.
Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Jo Paddock; one son, Robert C. Paddock, Jr. (Christy) of Plainfield; three grandchildren, Addison Paddock, Dominic D'Angelo (Riley Sutherland) and Teresa D'Angelo.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, John Michael Paddock and Gary Wayne Paddock.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 15, at 1PM at Singleton and St. Pierre Funeral and Cremation Services. The family will receive guests at the funeral home from 10AM until the time of service. Burial and military honors will immediately follow at Floral Park Cemetery in Indianapolis.
Memorial contributions can be made in Bob Paddock's memory to Southport Heights Christian Church, 7154 S McFarland Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46227.