Robert Grundhofer

Age 85 of Braidwood, Illinois, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 8, 2022 at Morris Hospital in Morris, Illinois.

Born May 5, 1937 in Chicago, Illinois, Robert John was a son of Robert P. and Elma (Smith) Grundhofer. He was raised in Buchanan, Michigan, where he attended the local grade schools, met the love of his life, Joyce Arlene Murden, and graduated (voted class clown) Class of 1955 from Buchanan High School. Following high school, Bob attended Michigan State University before returning home to marry Joyce on August 3, 1957 at the Buchanan Church of Christ. He then went on to serve 9 years in the Michigan National Guard, finishing as Staff Sergeant before returning to school.

He attended Lincoln Christian College in Lincoln, Illinois where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Christian Ministries (1968), and Masters of Divinity in Church History (1972).  Known by many as Brother Bob during his fifty-year career in the ministry, he served as Minister/Pastor at Lorraine Christian Church, The Christian Church of Clarendon Hills, Central Christian Church of Harvey, and Hillcrest Christian Church in Hazel Crest. He served as treasurer for the Chicago Service Center and was a member of the South Suburban Action Conference. Bob was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan, but enjoyed watching any sport. Throughout the years the family attended the North American Christian Conventions followed by memorable vacations and trips. Bob had a wonderful sense of humor, led Bible studies until his final days, and will be remembered for his signature suspenders, which always accompanied his belt. Bob’s faith was his true standard, and in addition to his family, it meant everything to him.

Survivors include Joyce, his wife of 64 years; their 4 children: Keith (Anne) Grundhofer of Westmont, Cheryl Thomas of Joliet, Kevin (Melinda) Grundhofer of Elwood and Brian (Nicole) Grundhofer of New Lenox; 11 grandchildren: Juliet (Rocky) Yera of Oak Park, Sarah (Adam) Ballard of Chicago, Erik (Gianna) Thomas, Amy Thomas (Jamie Dockery) both of Joliet, Ashley Grundhofer, Hannah Grundhofer and Nathan Grundhofer all of Elwood, Kyla (Jake) Glidewell of Frankfort, Josh Grundhofer, Grace Grundhofer and Chloe Grundhofer, all of New Lenox; 9 great grandchildren: Caleb, Jacob, Jordan, Lilianne, Aiden, Ella, Milah, Owen, and Tayler; and one brother, Lon Grundhofer of Covington, Georgia.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; one great granddaughter, Aleigh; his son-in-law, Kevin Thomas; and sister-in-law, Barbara (Everett) Place.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at First Christian Church of Wilmington, 1824 Church Street in Wilmington on Thursday, May 12, 2022 from 3:00 p.m. until the time of funeral service 6:00 p.m. Pastor Jason Pace will officiate with Brother Bob’s colleague, Pastor Essex Jones.

Cremation rites will be accorded following the services.

Preferred memorials in lieu of flowers may be made as gifts in Bob’s memory to the First Christian Church of Wilmington, 1824 Church Street, Wilmington, IL 60481.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Bob’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and cremation arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)