Robert E. “Bob” Pletcher
Robert E. “Bob” Pletcher, 74 of Crooksville, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday April 7, 2025. Born in Zanesville, Ohio, on May 1, 1950, to the late Glenn C. and Marie (Eppley) Pletcher, Bob spent his life tending to the earth, a true farmer at heart and a loving husband, caring brother, adoring uncle and selfless friend to all those that knew him. Bob grew up on the family farm, a place that would become the cornerstone of his life’s work and passion. He attended Deavertown York School before graduating from Morgan High School in 1968, where he was part of one of the school’s earliest graduating classes. After high school, Bob dedicated himself to agriculture, a field in which he would excel and be recognized for his contributions. His love for farming was more than a profession; it was a way of life. In 2023, Bob’s commitment to excellence in agriculture was honored when he received the Top Yield for Corn award by the Morgan County Soil & Water Conservation District for the C & R Pletcher Farm. His affiliation with the Morgan Co Soil & Water and his membership in the Morgan County FFA underscored his dedication to farming and his community. Bob was also a devoted member of the Black Oak Methodist Church, when in operation. His faith was a quiet but firm foundation upon which he built his life and values. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 25 years, Julie (Walpole) Pletcher, and his son and daughter-in-law, Brandon and Vanessa Frash, his siblings, Donald (Rosalie) Pletcher, Clarence Thomas Pletcher, Alma Mae (Eddie) Iden, Marjorie Simms, Linda (Richard) Warner, and Pearl (David) Ogg. He was a treasured uncle to several nieces and nephews, and he held a special place in his heart for his farming companions, Cody, Chad, Kevin, who worked alongside him in the fields and his niece Lucinda. Those who knew Bob understood that his life was a testament to hard work, devotion to family, and a love for the land. His hands may have been calloused from years of labor, but his heart remained soft, always ready to offer to tell a story or share a laugh. Bob’s presence was a comforting constant in the lives of his loved ones, and his absence will be deeply felt. In the quiet moments, when the wind whispers through the cornstalks, one can almost hear Bob’s gentle voice, offering words of encouragement and wisdom. His spirit, like the soil he and Julie cherished, will remain fertile and nurturing, providing a foundation for future growth and prosperity. He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents and brother-in-law Donald Simms. Calling hours will be held Friday April 11, 2025, from 11:00am – 2:00pm at Ross-Frash Funeral Home, 207 Burley Street, Crooksville, where funeral services will begin at 2:00pm with Pastor Marc Caton officiating. Bob will be laid to rest joining his parents in Black Oak Cemetery, Deavertown. Following the services at the funeral home, there will be a celebration of life held at the Crooksville-Roseville VFW. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Black Oak Cemetery, the perpetual care fund in Bob’s memory. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
