Robert “Dale” Ladson Sr., 76, of rural Rochester, Ind. and Mentone, Ind., passed away at 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 8, 2014, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, Ind., after being in failing health since December.

On June 29, 1937, Robert was born in Marshall County, Ind., to LaVerne E. and Mildred E. (Shaffer) Ladson. Robert married Lois Ann England on Oct. 24, 1965, at the Pleasant Grove Methodist Church in Kosciusko County, Ind., and she survives.

He was a dairy farmer as well as working for Petrolene Gas Company, Warsaw. He also worked as a seed salesman for Patriot, Brodbeck, Crow’s and Sunstar companies. In addition, he worked for the federal crop insurance program.

Robert was a graduate of Talma High School in 1955 and he was an all-county softball pitcher. He was a veteran of the Army National Guard serving from 1960-1966 and receiving many commendations. He was a member of the Talma Bible Church. He enjoyed his morning coffee at Teel’s, Tweedle Dee’s, Akron Kountry Kitchen and the former Steer Inn. He loved traveling to the Dakotas to see family as well as going to casinos like Belterra and Four Winds. He dearly loved his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife: Lois Ladson, Rochester; a daughter: Roberta Ann Ladson, Warsaw, Ind.; two sons: Robert Dale Jr. (Joanna) Ladson, Bremen, Ind.; and Ryan Ladson, Mentone; a sister, Mary (Jim) Unzicker, Claypool, Ind.; and three grandchildren: Nathaniel, Marisa and Joshua Ladson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister: Lena Goss; and a brother: Lynn Ladson.

Visitation is from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 11, at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, at the funeral home with Rev. Ben Hammond officiating. Burial is in the Sycamore Cemetery, Mentone, with graveside military rites performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions are open to the donor’s choice.