Friday, July 15, 2022

Robert Gates

Petersburg, IL - Robert Gates, 88, of Petersburg, passed away at 5:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 14, 2022, at Regency Care in Springfield.


Robert (Bob) was a graduate of the University of Illinois and worked as a civil and structural engineer in the Springfield area.

Seeing his father pass away immediately following retirement, Bob realized he wanted to enjoy life now rather than waiting until he was 65. Thus, began summers spent with his family and dogs at his ‘off the grid’ island cabin in the wilds of Canada.

It was a bold choice because he had to quit his job! However, another engineering firm quickly picked him up, offering him summers off! He worked for them for the rest of his career.

This life change gave his wife and son idyllic summers surrounded by nature, artists, and minimal technology. This also allowed Bob to do what he really loved - camping, putzing on projects and his favorite pastime, fishing, of which he was a master.

He also happily allowed his wife to drag him around the world: camping in Australia, hiking in New Zealand, whale watching in Baja California, exploring the Galapagos Islands and marveling at Machu Pichu.

He is survived by his wife, Aneita; his son, Kameron; his sister, Sally, and many nieces and nephews.

A private ceremony will be held.

Donations in Bob’s memory may be made to the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702-1766.

Hurley Funeral Home in Petersburg, Illinois, is assisting Bob’s family with final arrangements and cremation rites.

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