Robert Frederick Sensow, 78, of La Porte, Indiana passed away Friday, February 19, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family. 

 

He was born on February 26, 1942, in La Porte to the late Fred C. and Bernice Gertrude (Vardaman) Sensow.  

 

Robert retired from NIPSCO as a CDL instructor, and formerly worked with the Pullman Standard Railroad, served as Chief of Police with the Long Beach Police Department, and an officer with the La Porte County Sheriff’s Department.  He and his wife were owners of Plain & Fancy Antiques where Bob fulfilled the role of “Plain”. He was a loyal longtime member of the First United Methodist Church of La Porte, the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club, the La Porte County Sheriff's Mounted Posse, a 4-H Horse and Pony Leader for over 20 years, the La Porte County Pioneer Land where he was a committee member, the Northwest Indiana Carriage and Sleigh Association, a member of the Equestrian Saddle Club, and the NIPSCO Retirees Club. He was a 1960 graduate of Union Mills High School. 

 

On May 16, 1964, Robert married Loralee Aldendorf who survives with their children, Robert “Kip” (Wendy) Sensow of Union Mills; Lora Lee-Ann (James A. “Andy”) Edwards of Aledo, TX; Amanda Charlotte (Benjamin) Tonagel of La Porte; grandchildren, Jeffrey Vervynckt, Cassidy Sensow, Kobe Robert Sensow, Lyla Edwards, Charlie Tonagel, Gray Edwards, Sawyer Tonagel, Brooks Frederick Tonagel, and Greta Tonagel; a sister, Margaret Childress of La Porte; and his dog, Penny Girl.  He was preceded in death by siblings, Karen Sue Sensow and Richard Sensow. 

Bob enjoyed spending time on his beloved family farm in Union Mills.  He was known by his friends and loved ones for his witty and unique humor. His booming voice will be remembered by many as the announcer at the 4-H Horse & Pony LaPorte County Fair for many years. Sometimes known as “Buggy Bob” because of his interest in horse drawn buggies and sleighs. As the organizer of the horse drawn sleigh rallies in LaPorte – he was often seen in his top hat and red scarf.  He enjoyed spending time around the dining room table playing dominos with his grandchildren – which often became quite competitive and lively.

 

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, February 23, 2021, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.  

 

Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at the First United Methodist Church, 1225 Michigan Avenue, La Porte, Indiana, where visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. Pastor Bob Vale will officiate.  

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church or the La Porte County Animal Shelter, 2855 IN-2, La Porte, Indiana 46350.  

 

Please share prayers, condolences and memories with the family at EsslingFuneralHome.com.