Walston, Robert Dean (Bob)
Robert Dean (Bob) Walston 77, of Chicago, IL, passed away Monday April 19, 2021 encircled by family and supported by JourneyCare staff at Rush Presbyterian inpatient Hospice, Chicago, IL. His long, well fought battle with heart disease had become increasingly more difficult, and another recent hospitalization presented complications from which he could not recover. Robert (Bob) was born on August 17, 1943 in Joliet, IL to Virginia Colvin Walston and Olin Riley Walston who both preceded him in death, as did two beloved younger brothers, John Michael (Mike) Walston and William H. (Bill) Walston and his nephew (Brian) Walston.
He is survived by two sisters, JoAnne (Richard) Fosdick and Barbara (Don) Hicks and 7 beloved nieces & nephews and 12 great nieces and nephews. He married Mary Brady (Hassett) in 1966, they were married for over 22 years. In 2007, he married Lorena Noriega Robles. Both survive. He leaves behind an 11-year old son, Robert Donald (Robby) from his marriage to Lorena, who brought his Dad immeasurable happiness and joy.
He is also survived by four children and six grandchildren from his first marriage. Children: Mary Kelly Walston; Shannon Beth Roedel (Brian); Morton John Walston (Tammy); Joshua Ezekiel Walston. Grandchildren: Makayla Walston; Cameron Roedel; Chase Roedel; Hayden Estes; Shelby Walston; Ezekiel (Zeke) Walston.
Bob graduated from Pontiac Township High School in 1962 and attended Southern Illinois University where he was a Golden Gloves competitor. He remained a fighter and competitor throughout his life for workers rights & protections, social justice, racial justice and needed systemic change. He believed in the humane treatment of all human beings, particularly those underserved and without a voice. He made mistakes and learned his lessons. He always believed in giving people second chances to do the next right thing.
Until his death, he never lost hope in his final request. He gave it to God and went to his rest. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8: 28
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the cardio thoracic team and staff at Rush Presbyterian for their excellent care and expertise over the years. It extended treasured years of life over the course of serious heart disease. Special thanks to the JourneyCare staff at Rush Presbyterian inpatient Hospice for their care and counsel through a most difficult time.
A private family burial will be held in Pontiac, Il at 12:30 on May 23, 2021. Friends and family are invited to join “A Celebration of Life Service” to be held at 1:00 PM on May 23, 2021 at The Drilling Farm 10975 E 1500 North Rd. Pontiac, IL 61764. Please RSVP with the number attending to RobertwalstonRSVP@ gmail.com by May 13th. Due to COVID all are asked to wear a mask.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to a special college fund created for Robby (age 11) held in trust for him by Shannon & Brian Roedel. Donations may be mailed to: Mr. & Mrs. Roedel 13488 Davenport Drive, Fishers, Indiana 46037 C/O Robby Walston College Fund.
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