Robert L. McGillem

August 29, 1937 - December 29, 2020

Robert L. McGillem, 83, of Indianapolis, passed away December 29, 2020. He was born August 29, 1937 in Indianapolis to the late Elmer L. and Helen Louise McGillem. Robert received his Bachelor’s Degree from Purdue University and his Master’s Degree in Chemistry from Butler University. He married Barbara Malcom, and was employed as a Senior Quality Control Chemist from 1970 until 2004, with Dow Chemical, Alexon Trend and finally Seradyn Diagnostics. Robert was a longtime member of Old Bethel United Methodist Church. He was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Civil Air Patrol, a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Rite, the American Chemical Society and the Circle of Janus Science Fiction Club. Robert and his wife, Barbara, loved to travel, especially on cruises where they were Diamond members of Carnival Cruise Line. Robert is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Barbara M. McGillem; children, Marie L. Nguyen, Melissa W. Henderson (Cort) and David L.E. McGillem (Cindy); grandchildren, Megan, Tyler, Bryce, Breanna, Beth, Chris, True and Royce; great-grandchildren, Halia, Gemma and Killian; and sister, Nancy Hutchingson. Funeral services are private. Memorial contributions are suggested to Old Bethel United Methodist Church, 7995 East 21st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219. Final care and arrangements are entrusted to Shirley Brothers Washington Memorial Chapel.