Robert Gene Wilson

Robert Gene "The Chief" Wilson, Sr., 74, of Crocker, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, August 22, 2021. He attended both New Albany, Indiana, and Waynesville, Missouri, High Schools. The Chief had been retired for many years, and, prior to that, he was a handyman that could fix just about anything. He use to say, "I'm a jack of all trades, master of none."

He had charisma and a personality that would light up every room he entered. He lived his life to the fullest and was fun-loving and happy, making people smile everywhere he went. Chief Bullawyaia was one of the richest men alive due to so many that loved and cared for him.

He was a musically talented percussionist and could play just about anything. He also loved to sing and dance. The Chief had a deep appreciation and respect for nature. He enjoyed going on walks and driving through the countryside. He was loving and always willing to give the shirt off of his back or give away his last dollar if that meant it was helping someone else. As Chief of our tribe, he felt the need to visit and check on every family member he could. He had a large extended family, both in the United States and Aruba, that he loved so much.

The Chief was born on January 31, 1947, in Elizabeth, Indiana, to the late Raymond Wilson and Margot (Helder) Kelkboom. He is survived by his children, Margo Matthews, Evelyn "Rosie" Tombleson, and Robert "Willie" Wilson, Jr.; grandchildren, Christopher and Jacob Matthews, Kindra Harris, Patrick Cole, Emma and Isaiah Wilson, and Ryne, Trent, and Haley Wilson; great-grandchildren, Miles Harris, Eli Casanas, and Taylynn, Kysn, Jayce, and Rylnn Wilson; siblings, Ronald Wilson, Rowald Kelkboom, Ruth Wilson-Barnes, and Evelyn Barnes; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, The Chief was preceded in death by his brothers, Lionel "Nel" Kelkboom and Everett "Heb" Wilson; sister, Ruby Lyskowinski; son, Todd "Arrow" Wilson; and nephew, Joey "Tall Eagle" Barnes.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 2, 2021, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany) and on Friday after 9:00 a.m. His funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home with burial to follow at Bethesda Cemetery in Elizabeth, Indiana.

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