Robert E. Elam

Age 96 of Morris, Illinois, passed away on Friday, October 2, 2026, at his home in Morris with his loving daughter by his side.

Born on June 2, 1930, in Morris, Robert was a son of J. Elbert and Alverne (Colwell) Elam. He was raised and educated in the local Mazon schools. Following his education in Mazon, Robert married the love of his life, June Leach, on November 18, 1950, in Mazon. Together, they built a loving life and raised their family. Robert worked at Self Locking before joining Caterpillar Incorporated in Aurora, Illinois, where he worked for more than 22 years before retiring in June 1992. A hardworking and devoted provider, Robert also took on various side jobs for local farmers throughout the community, always striving to provide for and support his family.

Robert was a member of the Thousand Trails Camping Timeshare Group and, along with his wife, June, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, helping provide meals to those in need in their community. Robert and June also enjoyed being part of local bowling leagues throughout their working and retirement years, sharing many memorable times together on the lanes.

Robert lived a full and meaningful life, finding joy in his family, travels, and many interests. During retirement, he and June enjoyed traveling together in their fifth-wheel camper, exploring various states across the country. Texas held a special place in their hearts, and they returned there many times throughout their travels. A devoted Chicago Cubs fan, Robert rarely missed a game, whether watching at home with June or listening along in the car with his family. He also enjoyed cheering on the Chicago Bulls. During retirement, Robert took ceramic classes and found joy in woodworking, creating beautiful pieces for his family to treasure. Above all, Robert will be remembered for his love and devotion to June, his children, and his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Robert is survived by his three children: Gary (Mary) Elam of Missouri, Terry (Leslie) Elam of Iowa, and Judy (the late Dennis) Shelton of Morris; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; two sisters Lois Snyder of Morris and Barbara Crandall of Washington State; one brother in-law Donald Wright of Washington State and one sister in-law Kathy Elam of Washington State; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, June, who passed away just ten weeks before him; his parents in-law; four sisters and three brothers; and one great-great grandchild.

Per Robert’s wishes, he has gifted his body for anatomical study and there will be no services at this time.

Special thanks and heartfelt appreciation are extended to Dennis & Kathy Jackson for their unwavering help and support to Robert and Judy in recent years, and to Lightways Hospice for their compassionate and dedicated care of both Robert and June.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneral.com to sign the guest book and share Robert's memorial page.

Arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-0700)