Robert Earl Fremgen

April 6, 1932 – August 4, 2023

Robert “Bob” Fremgen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on August 4, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. Born on April 6, 1932, in Chicago, IL, to Jessie and John Fremgen, Bob's life journey was one marked by dedication, kindness, and a deep commitment to his family and faith.

Bob's journey began in the Cicero neighborhood of Chicago as the 6th of 7 children. He attended Mary Queen of Heaven grade school in Cicero, where his strong foundation of faith and dedication to his Catholic upbringing was instilled. He went on to attend St. Phillips High School in Chicago and furthered his education at Morton Junior College in Cicero. Bob's early years were defined by hard work and a strong sense of responsibility. From a young age, he took on various jobs to support his family and his education. Beginning as a soda jerk at a local pharmacy at the age of 14, he went on to work as an ice cream dipper and a bowling alley pinsetter. He pedaled through rain and shine, delivering Western Union telegrams on his bike, showcasing his dedication and determination.

Bob's life was characterized by his deep devotion to his Catholic faith. He began serving as an altar boy in his early years, working hard to fund his own Catholic education. This dedication led him to answer a higher calling, and he spent seven years as a Catholic Priest, living a life of service and faith. Following the path that he believed God had guided him towards and after receiving a Papal Dispensation, Bob then embarked on another remarkable journey – that of a loving husband to his wife of 55 years, Barbara. Their marriage was a testament to unwavering love, partnership, and mutual respect.

Together, Bob and Barbara raised four children, leaving an indelible mark on each of their lives. He worked tirelessly to provide them with a Catholic education, often juggling multiple jobs to ensure their needs were met. Despite his busy schedule, he never missed an opportunity to gather his family around the dinner table, always prioritizing quality time with those he held dear.

Bob's role as a grandfather brought him immense joy, and he formed unique and cherished bonds with each of his nine grandchildren. Whether attending sporting events, award ceremonies, graduations, birthdays, or simply sharing moments of laughter, he was a constant and loving presence in their lives and a beacon of pride. Beyond his role as a family man, Bob excelled in his career as an insurance salesperson and financial planner. He not only guided his clients toward secure financial futures but also formed lasting friendships that extended beyond business.

Bob's hobbies reflected his multifaceted nature. He found solace in playing his harmonica, assembling puzzles, reading books about history and religion, and, of course, sharing his beloved dad jokes. He never missed the opportunity to tell someone that his name was Bob with one “o”. One of his greatest joys in his later years was singing in the church choir which he enjoyed for over 30 years. He also had a unique fondness for turtles, finding inspiration in their tenacity and ability to progress despite challenges.

Throughout his life, Bob never missed an opportunity to express his love. He read his Bible and prayed daily, and the words "I love you" were never far from his lips when parting ways with his family. His unwavering faith, boundless love, and radiant spirit will forever remain etched in our hearts.

Bob's journey in this world may have come to an end, but his memory will forever live on in the lives he touched. As we bid farewell to a devoted husband, loving father, doting grandfather, brother, uncle and faithful friend, we find solace in knowing that his spirit will remain with us, guiding us with love, strength, and the reminder to "stick our necks out" and embrace life's challenges just as the turtles do.

We will carry Bob's love and wisdom in our hearts, cherishing the moments shared with him, and ensuring that his legacy lives on through the stories we tell and the lives we lead. Bob, known affectionately as dad, grandpa, Uncle Rob, will be dearly missed and fondly remembered. Rest in peace, dear Bob, and may your soul find eternal joy in the embrace of the Divine.