Robert "Rob" Thomas Buford

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Thomas Buford who departed this life on July 19, 2025, at the age of 48. Robert was affectionately known as Rob. He was born on December 11, 1976, in Crown Point, Indiana. Rob graduated from Crown Point High School in 1996 and furthered his education to become a surgical technologist and an emergency medical technician. Rob was a master griller and excellent cook. He took great pleasure in preparing food for family and friends. He was an avid video gamer forming friendships with people all over the world. Through gaming he formed a friendship with Dario, who became like a brother to him. Dario’s family also became Rob’s family. If you asked Rob what his favorite thing was to do it would be going to Disney. Disney was a destination to enjoy time with his wife and children. Rob also loved going to the movies. He thoroughly enjoyed going every Saturday with his movie buddy Nick. A running joke his wife and boys had was about his prized possession, his truck, AKA princess. He babied this truck so much she wouldn’t come out if it was going to rain. Rob was often viewed as loud, but he was a gentle giant for those who got to know him. He was a fighter with much determination. He fought cancer for 14 years going through multiple treatments but always pushed through. He instilled in the boys to have self-determination and always be strong. Rob dedicated his life by pouring love, integrity, and values into his children. Nothing made him prouder than to be a father. Rob was preceded in death by his brother, Dennis Smolek. He will be dearly missed by his loving and devoted wife of 23 years, Kim Buford; devoted children, Matthew and Luke Buford; two fur babies, Zeus and Apollo; mother, Cynthia (David) Keilman and father, William (Michelle) Buford; sister, Betsy (Michael) Morris; four nephews: Nick and Scott Morris, Justin and Denny Smolek; niece, Ashley Smolek; best friend, Dario (Karina) Rivera. He will also be remembered with love by his aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends. A visitation will be held to honor Rob's life at Burns Funeral Home & Crematory, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN, on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Rev. Thomas E. Mischler officiating. Interment immediately following at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, 8178 S. Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to help the family with expenses by going to https://gofund.me/16cf52c3. www.burnsfuneral.com

Robert "Rob" Thomas Buford

December 11, 1976 - July 19, 2025