Robert William “Bill” Kearns, 89, of Flora, passed away at his home on Monday, April 13, 2026.
Bill was born in Carroll County on December 23, 1936, to the late Robert D. and Nellie Bright Shanks Kearns. He graduated from Flora High School in 1955 and went on to attend Purdue University, earning a degree in Agricultural Economics in 1959. While at Purdue, Bill was involved in ROTC and was a member of Acacia Fraternity. He even attempted to walk on to the Purdue basketball team in 1955.
On December 14, 1958, Bill married Marcia Jane Williams in Burlington. She survives.
Following graduation, Bill served as an assistant County Agent with the Boone County Extension Office. He later returned to his roots, farming alongside his father on the family farm. Over the years, he also worked in agricultural sales, including with Charles Yeager, Moews Seed Corn, and Beck’s Hybrids.
Bill was a devoted supporter of Purdue University, proudly following Boilermaker athletics throughout his life. He was a longtime member of the John Purdue Club and held basketball season tickets since 1967. This past December, he had the special opportunity to meet Coach Gene Keady at a game and spend time visiting with him near Keady Court.
Another lifelong passion was the Indianapolis 500. The Kearns family has held tickets to the race for generations, and Bill attended for 78 consecutive years. He even kept one of his early entry badges from his younger days. At home, Bill took pride in his “man cave,” where he displayed his cherished collection of Purdue and Indy 500 memorabilia.
Bill was a man of faith. He was raised Presbyterian and attended Flora Presbyterian Church for many years before later joining Living Faith Brethren Church. He was also a dedicated member of the Flora Lions Club, always willing to serve and support his community.
Bill’s life centered around his faith, his family, his love for Purdue, and the Indianapolis 500.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jane; daughter, Lisa (Douglas) Spruill of Yorktown, Virginia; son, Michael Kearns of Lafayette; and two grandchildren, Tyler Douglas Spruill and Cassidy Jane Spruill. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother.
Visitation was held Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Living Faith Brethren Church, 310 N 250 W, Flora, Indiana. A celebration of Bill’s life was held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the church. Pastor Guy Studebaker officiated. Burial followed at Zion Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Living Faith Brethren Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.wheelerfamilyfuneralhome.com. Wheeler Family Funeral Home–Baker Chapel is honored to serve the Kearns family.