Robert E. Short, 87, of Onarga passed away on Monday, August 12, 2024 at the Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. He was born on October 29, 1937 in Grayville, Illinois, a son of Alvia and Geneva Martin (Short) and they both preceded him in death along with one sister, Norma Schnurr of California. He took great pleasure in telling people his father worked on for the railroad where he grew up living in a box-car traveling up and down the Illinois Central Railroad line for over 6 years. This caused him to go to several different schools until they finally settled in Onarga when he was in upper elementary school.
On December 22, 1956, he married the love of his life Shirley Zillins in Gilman and she survives. They were married for over 67 years and had so many blessings in this time. Their first adventure took them to Monterey Bay, California where Bob proudly served in the Army for two years while stationed at Fort Ord.
Their next adventure brought them back to Illinois. Bob worked at Uarco in Watseka for over 40 years. He spent 20 years as Supervisor of Purchasing and another 20 as Production Manager. During this time, they bought a home in Onarga and welcomed two children into the world. Bradley (Debra) Short of Onarga and Brenda (Bruce) Miller of Fairbury. They also have two grandchildren, Tayler (Eric) Bergstresser of Knoxville, IL. and Lucas (Victoria) Miller of Lebanon, TN. One step-grandchild, Lesley Miller of Normal, IL. Three great-grandchildren, Peyton & William Miller & Amelia Bergstresser. Two step-grandchildren, Chance & Katelyn Bonds. Also surviving are many nieces & nephews.
After retirement, he worked part time as a deliver parts driver for Napa Auto Parts in Gilman which allowed him to continue to greet & talk to people in the community on a daily basis. It also gave him extra spending money for his favorite hobby, golf. He also enjoyed fishing & hunting in his younger years.
Bob spent many years engaged in community and public service. He served on the Onarga school board as President for many years and then Iroquois West school board. He was also a member of Zion United Church of Christ where he served as Treasurer and President over the years.
Bob and Shirley were truly best friends and did literally everything together for over 67 years. Bob’s greatest joy, was spending time with family, all of his grand & great-grandchildren. He was their biggest cheerleader and a very proud Grandpa. He will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 16, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 pm at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. A Private Family Graveside service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family, to be sent to Zion United Church of Christ and Iroquois Memorial Hospital Hospice.
Arrangements are being handled by the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga.
