I knew Bobbie since Grammar School. He was a
wonderful person and true friend. We always had a special connection
growing up and I treasured our friendship. My thoughts and prayers are
with his family at this most difficult time.
Posted by: Beth Braunstein Felixson Hillsdale, NJ - friend from
Woodcliff Lake Jun 08, 2010
Bob's "bigger than life"
presence will be missed. We are deeply saddened by your loss.
Karin.....we are thinking of you and the kids! It was an honor to have
known Bob! With our sincerest condolences, Bob and Roz Price
Posted by: Roz Price Springboro, OH - friend of family Jun 07, 2010
To Bob's family and friends, I just want to pass
along my condolences and my prayers for you and your family during this
difficult time. Bob was a recent friend of mine, as we interviewed at
Omni together and worked for DHL in Ohio, but did not know each other.
While in training, Bob kept us in laughter and always had a great
attitude toward learning and the class. On weekends, I would find "hole
in the wall" places to go eat breakfast, and Bob would join me. We had a
great time and he always made me laugh. I will miss his smile and
laughter. I will continue to pray for you Karin and your two sons during
this time. May God be with you during this time. Sincerely, David Morton
Posted by: David Morton PVB, FL Jun 07, 2010
Although Robert was only
part of our pilot group for short time, he left a very favorable
impression. His presence will be missed. His family will be in our
thoughts at this particularly difficult time. Jerry Pryce Omni Teamsters
1224 Membership Chairman
Posted by: Jerry Pryce Independence, OR Jun 07, 2010
We are heartbroken over Bob's death. May God bless
you all and give you strength! Bob had many friends and will be missed!
Posted by: Langenkamp Family SPRINGBORO, OH Jun 07, 2010
Bob and I became friends in
1978 as we worked our way through flight training at Vero Beach and then
ERAU in Daytona. Bob was also my roommate at ERAU .We studied and hung
out on the beach together. I will never forget Bob and I taking a long
weekend to drive my old Buick to N.C.to visit his folks, what a great
time! To Bobs family my thoughts and prayers are with you sincerely
Halsey Langdon.
Posted by: Halsey Langdon Linthicum, MD Jun 07, 2010
Karin, Johnny & Jamie, We are heart broken over
the passing of your Dad and husband. In the short two year's we knew Bob
he became a very good friend. He was my kind of guy, with a great laugh,
great humor, a guy you wanted to be around. We will truly miss him
forever and are here for you always. Bret, Debbie, Wes and Elissa Sander
Posted by: Bret, Debbie, Wes & Elissa Sander Middletown, OH -
Friend Jun 07, 2010
Knew each other from H.S.
and reconnected at a couple of reunions. A good friend to all with a
ready laugh or smile. You will be missed.
Posted by: Tara Albini-Spence VA Jun 07, 2010
Johnny & Family, Know that my prayers are with you
guys & my family is thinking of yours during this hard time. Your dad
was a great man. Let us know if you need anything. The Hawkins
Posted by: Lauren Hawkins Middletown, OH Jun 07, 2010
To the Plump family, I am so
sorry to hear about Bobby... I was lucky enough to have grown up with
him in Woodcliff lake, NJ and considered him a friend. We both took
French together and needless to say neither of us could speak three
words of it, but we laughed so much together. God Bless, he will be so
missed.
Posted by: Robert Lull Kinnelon, NJ - Friend Jun 07, 2010
Bobby was one of the most spirited and kind
hearted persons I've ever known. If ever I was down he could always
manage to lighten up my mood and eventually had me laughing. I will
always remember our great times we spent at PHHS. My dear friend, you
are truly missed by so many, especially by me.... My deepest sympathy
and heartfelt condolences to the Plump family. Rest in peace my friend.
Posted by: Francine Ganguzza Clifton, NJ - Good Friend Jun 06, 2010
Oh Karin, Aunt Fran,
Jeannie, Ronnie, Brad, and Kristen. I am crying out loud. It hurts so
much. Someday we will be consoled by the memory of his voice, his smile,
and his pure and radiant love. I love you my brother, you brought it
down safely, the big guys are are proud, and waiting to hug you when you
get home. Little Carl
Posted by: Carl Padovano Mahwah, NJ Jun 06, 2010
Our hearts are heavy with the loss of our best of
friends. He is very special to all of us. God speed my friend, as fly to
the west and may the Lord be with you...
Posted by: Bill McCormick Simpsonville, SC Jun 06, 2010
Wow sorry to hear about Bobs
passing the last time I saw Bob was about 26 years ago when I bumped
into him in Florida. He was always a very cool, fun loving, likeable
person, I am sure he was that way through out his life. God Bless you
Bob, see Ya again on the other side.
Posted by: Thomas Hustedt - Pascack Hills Classmate Jun 06, 2010
I send my love to you and wand you to know that my
thoughts and prayers are with you with the loss of Bobby. He had a
special place in the hearts of all that knew him and his presence will
be missed. His smile and warmth and outgoing personality will always be
remembered. Know that as Bobby entered into Heaven that he was welcomed,
not only by Our Lord, but also by his Father and Uncle Don, where he
will join them in watching over you all from Heaven above. May you all
find comfort with the special memories and times that you spent together
as a family. May God bless you and hold you all in the palm of His hand.
With all my love, Cioci Stasia (and Uncle Don too)
Posted by: Stasia Plump Myrtle Beach, SC Jun 05, 2010
To My Uncle Bob, You were
the greatest uncle anyone could ever ask for. In many ways, you were
like a father to me. I always looked up to you and all that you did. I
was so proud to call you my uncle and I loved telling people all the
great stories about you to them. Your warmth, smile, and attitude will
stay with me forever. I will miss you more than you ever know. I love
you Uncle Bob. To Karin, Johnny, and Jamie...Love, Prayers, Thoughts,
and Well Wishes. Bob will smile down on you all for the rest of your
lives, help guide you in the right direction, and protect you from harm.
We all love you so much Bob...You inspired us all and will do so
forever...
Posted by: Bradford H. Turnow Center Moriches, NY Jun 05, 2010
Johnny, You are in our prayers. We are here if you
need anything. Love, Allison and Ricky Pearce
Posted by: Ricky and Allison Pearce Middletown, OH Jun 05, 2010
My vivid memories of Bobby
include our wonderful high school friendship senior year, our beautiful
prom date filled with laughter and fun, and most of all the sweetness
and kindness of his heart. His smile could light up a room, take away
any sadness, mend any hurt. I truly miss Bobby and I pray that he is at
peace. Whenever I see a plane flying overhead I will think of him,
knowing that he is looking down at us and smiling. Until we meet again
my friend. With love, Nancy
Posted by: Nancy Wahler Mayfield Spring Hill, FL - Friend Jun 05, 2010
Only the good die young. I will always remember
your bright eyes, your amazing smile, and our great times at PHHS!!
Posted by: Susan Rubenstein Wompierski Cinnaminson, NJ Jun 05, 2010
To Bob's family I am very
sad and sorry to see one of my best buddies in the world gone. We had so
many laughs together and we always lived live to the fullest. Bob came
to visit me and my son in NY last summer. I have many photos of that
trip. If you need anything from me or just want to talk feel free to
contact me. I will miss the Rooster forever! dbrady@online.sh.cn
Posted by: Dan Brady Shanghai, OH Jun 05, 2010
Bob will always be remembered in our memories as
an individual that we were proud to be friends with.
Posted by: David Moritz Valparaiso, IN Jun 05, 2010
Dear Karen and children We
wish to extend our condolences to you and all your family during this
painful time. When things quiet down in the weeks to come, we will be
checking in on you to see if you need anything. Sincerely Steve and
Nancy
Posted by: Steve Colangelo & Nancy O'Keefe Florence, KY - coworker &
friends Jun 05, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your
family during this difficult time. Both my husband and I worked with Bob
for many years and I have fond memories of sharing stories of his family
over lunches in the cafeteria. May God bless and watch over you during
these tough times. Brad and Lori DeVinney
Posted by: Lori Loveland, OH Jun 04, 2010
I am so deeply shocked and
sorry for your loss. Bobby was a very special friend of mine at Pascack
Hills HS, and we attended the Senior Prom together. Bobby was warm,
funny and smart, and always a gentleman. I will always remember him as a
person who was kind hearted to everyone he met, and especially kind to
me. My thoughts and prayers are with Bobby and his family. Love, Nancy
Wahler Mayfield
Posted by: Nancy Wahler Mayfield Spring Hill, FL Jun 04, 2010
Karin, Johnny and Jamie, Our family would like to
send our condolences to your family in this time of grief. We briefly
knew Bob from watching Johnny at Fenwick basketball games. He was a nice
and gentle person who enjoyed watching his son play basketball. Our
prayers for you during this time.
Posted by: The Rapier Family, Tim Katie, Angela, Amanda and Aimee
Hamilton, OH Jun 04, 2010
My condolences to you and
your family. Bob always meant the world to me. I will miss that crazy
man that was my first sim instructor at DHL when I was hired 15 years
ago. He had an intensity that was quite unique, but you could always
tell the man cared so deeply about what he did and whom he surrounded
himself with. Although I haven't seen Bob in years after leaving DHL, I
truly miss my conversations with him and his outlook on things. You
always knew where Bob stood on a topic, and I respected that from him
and the good person he was. My love, thoughts, and prayers go out to you
in your time of need and sorrow, God Bless you and you family.
Posted by: Rich Millar Indianapolis, IN Jun 04, 2010
Dear Karin, Johnny and Jamie, It is with great
sorrow that Maura and I learn of Bob's passing. We consider ourselves
very fortunate to count Bob and Karin as our friends. You will always be
in our hearts and prayers. Bob was a very special person. He touched
people with his kindness and genuine concern for others. His family
meant everything to him. As neighbors, I will always remember Bob
playing with young Johnny. He always spoke with great pride in both
Johnny and Jamie. He is one of the few people that I always felt
comfortable being around. A very honest and trustworthy man. A dedicated
professional at work and loyal friend in life. All of us that had the
pleasure to know Bob will miss him dearly. May God be with you and
provide comfort in these difficult times.
Posted by: Tom Brinton Denver, CO Jun 04, 2010
Robert John Plump Jr.
When life caves in, you do not need reasons – you need comfort.
You do not need answers – you need someone.
And Jesus does not come to us with an explanation – He comes to us
with His presence. – Bob Benson
The first thing I remember about my Uncle Bob was food.
Strange enough, but it is true.
My uncle was such an amazing athlete and in such great shape, that he
could eat whatever he wanted, and never gain a pound.
Fa-Fa used to always tell my sister and I about all the peanut butter
and jelly sandwiches he would eat.
I remember when he lived with us in Hillsdale, he would eat a simple
breakfast consisting of 5 to 6 fried eggs, of course cooked in the bacon
grease of the 8 to 10 slices of bacon he made, and wash it down with an
uncooked English Muffin or two.
He would always tell me, I don’t have time to wait for the English Muffins
to cook. So he ate them
straight from the package.
Covered in butter or cream cheese of course.
Down they went. For
lunch, I remember he would take me out to McDonald’s all the time.
He would get up to the counter and place the order.
2 Quarter Pounders with Cheese, 2 Large Fries, 1 Large Chocolate
Shake, and 2 Apple Pies. Then
he would look at me and say, “Oh, I’m sorry, did you want to get something
too?” All Bob needed was a few
quick minutes and it was all gone.
Then I’d catch him eating the extra fries off of my plate. To me, he
was the coolest guy in the world.
I was proud to share my fries with him.
"Out"
My uncle Bob had many famous sayings and words. One of my favorites
was "out". Whenever you asked my Uncle Bob where he was going, he
would simply tell you "out". When I was a young boy, I would ask him,
"What does 'out' mean"? He would look at me and simply say, "It means
'out'". This became a familiar saying that my uncle would use often
with the family. I thought about it on many occasions. At first,
I always took it as he meant, "It is none of your business." But as
the years went on, I learned it meant something much different. I now know
what he meant was something more simple. "Out" simply meant I have a
place in mind to begin my journey, but I do not know where it is going to
end. Bob was so social that he never knew where he would end up.
He could start a conversation with anyone, at any time, at any place.
With a friend or a total stranger, at daybreak or in the middle of the
night, at a ballgame, or at an airport. He would become your buddy in
mere seconds. He always made you feel like you were his best friend. He
would start his journey for the day in one place, and I do not think he ever
ended his journey in the same place he began it. He could visit 10
different friends or family members in a day. And to each one of those
people, he was honest, funny, spirited, and most importantly...genuine.
You always knew where Bob stood. There was no gray area with Bob.
That is what I loved and admired about him. My uncle's journey has not
come to an end....He has simply started another conversation somewhere
else....He is now in heaven. Maybe he is sitting down talking to a
former college roommate, a fellow pilot, playing a round of golf with his
father Pop-o, or simply talking to God about his wonderful family.
What I do know now is that "out" means a beginning. A simple beginning
of where to start your day and then deciding which people will be touched by
your presence. Bob has touched everyone with his presence and his
going "out" now means everyone in heaven will now get to enjoy and share
what we all have been blessed to experience here on Earth. "Out"
Good men must die, but death
cannot kill their names.
--The Bible
My earliest recollection of my uncle was of him playing with me on my
grandparents gold shag carpeting in their family room.
He used to hold me up by his feet and play airplane and then drop me
out of the sky and hold me as tight as he could.
Bobby was not an uncle to me he was my big brother.
He was so patient with me.
He taught me how to ride a bike, shot hoops, and chew my grandfather
Pop-o’s tobacco. When my
softball season ended and we won he took me to the local town bar, “Toby’s”
and the bartender got me a small beer to celebrate my win.
He most loved to play tricks on me like telling me that I could have
some of his coke a cola and the minute I took a sip of it I and realized it
was black coffee. When Bobby
went out he dragged me along. I
knew all of his good friends like Carl Padovano, Mike Blake, Joe Ferranti,
Matt Reilly, Caleb and Mike Duffy…The greatest thing about my uncle is that
everywhere he went he made friends. I think his crazy red hair, warm smile,
and humble body language attracted all types of wonderful people.
Bob was a genuine soul. He naturally loved people and the only people
he didn’t like were some of our lying politicians!
He was very intelligent and had firm beliefs which he could always
back up with facts. He always
encouraged me to read the Constitution and to get more involved in our
country’s well-being. I really
admired him for that. Bob was
the son of a man who had served our country.
He had a great deal of respect for what his father and his father’s
friends fought for.
When Bob meant Karin his whole world came together.
After they got married and moved to Chicago I went up for my first
visit. After spending time with
them it was so obvious that they were truly soul mates.
His “Ho-ho”. In all the
years growing up with Bob in whom I visited him at college several times,
saw him in flight training, and hung out with him with his friends I never
met any “girlfriend” of Bob’s.
Karin was his one and only true love.
He called the family right away after they met.
He knew she was the one.
While I stayed with them in Chicago the memory that sticks out the most for
me is of him grilling on this tiny deck over a baby Smokey Joe grill.
Every night he would sit out stooped over his Smokey Joe grilling
meat. His long legs bent up so
high that his knees were nearly touching his neck.
It is equally as important to mention that it was freezing in Chicago
and he always had a scarf wrapped around his neck.
Bob never liked the cold.
He loved the warm weather.
This leads me to all of his wonderful visits with his Mom, better known to
all of us as Fa-Fa. Bob was an
excellent son. He flew down to
Florida at least 6-10 times a year and sometimes more when she needed him.
He was very handy and fixed anything that needed to be fixed.
He not only waxed her car every time he was there, but he would clean
her tile floors. He was a
gentleman. He took great care
of his Mom. They had a very
special relationship.
Bob’s sister, my Mom, Jeanne had a very special relationship with her
brother as she was 13 years older than he.
She smothered him with love as a child and she was always very
protective of him. She always
thought it was so funny how her baby brother had wanted black hair for
Christmas. Although Bob “the
rooster” was never fortunate enough to attain black hair his beautiful son,
Johnny got the gorgeous dark hair that Bobby had longed for.
When Johnny was born Bob and Karin were the happiest couple in the
world. Bob had always wanted
kids so bad. He was always
flying up to see my children, Ashley and Joseph.
He would hug them until their eye balls were nearly popping out of
their heads. Johnny was like an
absolute miracle to Bob. He
couldn’t wait to put him on a plane and bring him up North by all of us to
see his beautiful baby boy. As
Johnny grew he quickly became an athlete like his father.
Every time I spoke to Bob or Karin they were off some where sometimes
even another state for Johnny to play baseball or basketball.
When Johnny was 7, Karin and Bob had given birth to a gorgeous baby
girl, Jamie. When I asked how
they picked out her name Bob told me that Johnny had.
Johnny immediately was very protective of his little sister and his
love for her was so obvious. My
Mom and I flew to their home in Kentucky to see Jamie for the first time as
she was only a couple of weeks old. I
still recall how Johnny watched everyone near his baby sister.
Throughout the years we have visited each other staying at each
other’s homes. Bob and Karin
are two of the most devoted and loving parents I have ever witnessed.
I want to leave you with one last story about Bob Plump.
When he was in High School he was a superior basketball and track
star. I used to go up to
Pascack Hills High School and watch Bobby run track.
He left everyone in the dust.
However, there was one match that will forever remain with me as it
truly depicts Bob’s beautiful nature.
Another Pascack Hills High School student had never won a race as he
always lagged behind Bob – but this one race Bob reached back and pulled his
team mate through the finish line before him.
Bob was not about Bob.
Bob was about making others happy.
When Bob hugged his family he would bite his tongue and you could see
on the side of the face the intensity of his love.
As you go through pictures in the slide show please notice Bob’s
expression when he hugs a child.
His father, Pop-o did the same thing.
Bobby loved everyone – most importantly he loved Karin, Johnny,
Jamie, his Mom, and his sister, Jeann-o.
He is a man that should be remembered with kind eyes, kind words and a kind
spirit. He has been welcomed
into God’s eternal home in Heaven.
While we will forever miss Bob and grief the loss of
his daily presence we all must remember that his legacy lives on with his
two children and wife. I beckon
all of you over the next several weeks to write to his family about a memory
or special moment that made your life fuller and richer because Robert
Plump, Jr. offered you his smile, his friendship and his love.