Robert J. Behme passed away peacefully on July 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, innovation, and love for his family and community. Bob was born on July 1935, in Evansville, IN the son of Joseph and Mary (Allard) Behme. He married Colleen Adams on June 15, 1963, and she preceded him in death on September 22, 2023.
Bob was a 1953 graduate of Evansville Mater Dei and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering in 1961 at Evansville College and a 1975 graduate of Indiana Executive Program Graduate School of Business from Indiana University. He devoted more than 32 years of distinguished federal service to the United States Navy at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division. Rising to Director of the Acoustic Sensors Department and Supervisory Electronics Engineer, he became a nationally respected leader in underwater acoustics and sonar technology. His vision and technical expertise helped establish Crane as a center of excellence for acoustic sensor testing, hydroacoustic research, and fleet support. His contributions strengthened the nation’s defense for decades and earned him numerous awards, including nomination for the Department of the Navy Superior Civilian Service Award.
Outside of his career, Bob was a man of deep faith and generous service. He was a faithful member of St. Peters Catholic Church. He was a Fourth-Degree Knights of Columbus member, a member of the Elks, Drum Major of the Kyilindy Drum and Bagpipe Corps, served on the Washington Catholic School Board, sang in the choir at St. Simon Church for 35 years, enjoyed cycling, and was an active member of the Daviess County Growth Council. He and his wife, Colleen, both received the Simon Brute’ Award in 2021 in recognition of their superior commitment in living a life of Christian stewardship.
Bob is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Kurt and Sheri (Kavanaugh) Behme of Evansville; grandchildren Alex Behme of Washington, Anne Behme, and Megan (Martin) Wathen and grandson-in-law Andrew Wathen; great grandchildren Kylan, Katelyn, Kinley, and Khloe Wathen of Evansville; and lifelong friend Clara Miller of Montgomery. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Behme; his brother, Arnold Behme; his sister, Jeanne Ann Heatherly; his wife of 60 years, Colleen Behme; and his beloved dog Wookie.
Friends may visit with Bob’s family on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 1-4 pm est at Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home, 2020 State Street, Washington, IN 47501 and from 10:00 am until 11:00 am on Monday, July 27, 2026, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 305 2nd Street, Montgomery, IN 47558. A Mass of Christin Burial will be celebrated at the conclusion of visitation beginning at 11:00 am est with Rev. Lowell Will celebrating. Bob will be laid to rest next to his wife Colleen in St. Peters Cemetery. The Behme family has requested memorial contributions be made to Washington RSVP in Bob’s name. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Bob and his family.
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