Robert Jonta

Robert F. Jonta, 81, passed away on Wednesday, December 21, at Prairie Lakes Health Campus in Noblesville, Indiana. Robert was born in Indianapolis on August 17, 1941, to Frank G. Jonta and Ella M. (Pushner) Jonta. He attended St. Anthony Grade School and was a lifelong member of St. Anthony Parish. He attended Sacred Heart Central High School and pursued studies in mechanical drawing after graduating in 1959. In 1963 Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army. He underwent extensive training in helicopter maintenance and repair before being sent to Vietnam where he flew many combat missions as a crew chief/door gunner. Bob was awarded a purple heart for injuries he suffered when his ship was shot down during an operation in 1965. Bob also received nine awards of the Air Medal with “V” device (for valor), the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1966. Bob used his natural acuity for precise lettering, penmanship, and measurement throughout his life in many woodworking and home-improvement projects. As a senior at Sacred Heart, he was recognized as having the best penmanship in his class. He had a reverence for tools and was meticulous in his work. Bob worked as an inspector at Link-Belt Company for several years after his military service. He also worked at RCA Records. His interests, besides woodcraft, included auto mechanics, driving his car, fishing, golf, and bowling. He learned to sail while visiting his brother Dave in California. On a return trip to California from Ensenada, Mexico, they sailed, along with two other crew members, through a violent squall, or “chubasco,” that severely tested their skills on the ocean. Bob was a member of the Vietnam Helicopter Crew Members Association, Vietnam Veterans of America, Holy Family Council (3682) Knights of Columbus, Wayne Post 64 American Legion, and VFW (life member). He is survived by his sister Carol Penn of Indianapolis, his brother Dave of El Segundo, CA and many cousins and friends. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Stevens Mortuary at 5520 West Tenth Street, Indianapolis. Viewing and visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 29, with a service at 1 p.m. officiated by Fr. John McCaslin. Burial at St. Joseph Cemetery with military honors will follow. Sincere appreciation is extended to the caring staff at Prairie Lakes and to nurses Mona Euler of “My Healthcare Advocate” and Cindy Dripps of Care Hospice. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.