Robert Lee Guppy, Sr.

Mapleton- Robert L. Guppy Sr., 86, of Mapleton, passed away at 7:55 AM on Wednesday, July 16 2025 at his residence. He was born on October 19, 1938 in Peoria, a son of Edgar C. and Maida F. (Karsjens) Guppy. He married Elizabeth Bergman on November 29, 1957 in Bartonville. She preceded him in death on June 7, 2014.

Also, preceding Robert in death were his parents, brother, Edgar Guppy III; sister, Marge Rhoads, and two grandchildren, Justin and Jill Guppy.

Surviving are his children, Robert (Debra) Guppy Jr of Bartonville; Richard (Debra) Guppy of Bartonville, Mary Kathleen “Kathy” (Jim) Thomason of Mapleton; Jody (Dave) Owen of Mapleton; seventeen grandchildren, thirty great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; brother, Ron (Sandy) Guppy of Springfield; sister, Patricia Blender of Peoria; sister-in-law, Martha Guppy of Bartonville, many nieces and nephews, and his loving, caring companion, Joyce Broadstone of Bartonville.

Robert and Elizabeth owned & operated Bob’s IGA in East Peoria from 1965-1993, they then changed it to New Twist, after ownership of the store, Robert enjoyed farming until retiring in 2000, and fully retiring after four years with Morton Auto Auction. He was a devoted member of St John Lutheran Church in Bartonville, avid Chicago Cubs, and sports fan. Robert enjoyed life, as he was always busy, working or enjoying coconut cream pie, drag racing, riding motorcycles, or fast pitch softball to name a few of his hobbies. But most of all was the time he spent with family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM (Noon) on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bartonville. Pastor Michael Jones will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded through Endsley-Sedgwick Funeral Home. Memorials can be made to St. John Lutheran Church or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com