Robert “Bob” Francis Stabler

May 17, 1942 – October 26, 2026

Robert “Bob” Francis Stabler passed away on October 26, 2026, in Joliet, Illinois.

Born on May 17, 1942, in Peru, Indiana, Bob was a hardworking man, a proud United States Army veteran, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and, as he liked to call himself, a cowboy. To his family and friends, he was known by many names—Dad, Pap, Papaw, Pop, Mr. Robert, Mr. Bob, and others—each one carrying its own special meaning and memories for those who loved him.

In April 1959, at just 16 years old, Bob married the love of his life, Wanda. What began as a love between two teenagers grew into 67 beautiful years of marriage, a lifetime of memories, and a family that would become their greatest legacy. Through thick and thin, through the joys and challenges of life, Bob and Wanda stood beside one another, honoring the promise they made all those years ago. Their marriage was a beautiful example of love, devotion, and commitment for the generations that followed them.

Bob spent much of his life working hard to provide for the family he loved so dearly. Over the years, he held many jobs, each reflecting his dedication and strong work ethic. From 1969 to 1970, he worked in bricklaying and masonry for his uncle’s business, McPherson & Sons, a trade he would return to from time to time to lend a helping hand. He later worked in security at Stateville Correctional Center from 1971 to 1974, followed by Pinkerton Security from 1974 to 1977.

One of Bob’s proudest professional accomplishments was his career with Commonwealth Edison at the Dresden Generating Station. He began working there on November 29, 1977, as a janitor, and through his determination and hard work, advanced to a position as a stockman in the storeroom in 1979. He remained with the company until his retirement on December 31, 1995.

Of course, anyone who knew Bob knew that retirement did not necessarily mean slowing down. Not quite ready to hang up his hat, Bob started his own lawn care and landscaping business, with help from his children and grandsons. He spent his mornings and afternoons caring for lawns and landscaping, then worked nights as a security guard at Lincoln-Way High School from 1997 until 2012. Hard work was simply part of who Bob was, and he took pride in everything he did.

As proud as Bob was of his work, nothing meant more to him than his family. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was not just a grandfather. He was the man behind countless happy memories, fun-filled visits, sleepovers, and time spent together at his and Wanda’s house. Those moments, whether they were special occasions or simply another day spent together, became treasured memories that his family will carry with them forever.

Bob was also a man of deep faith. His relationship with God was an important part of his life, reflected in his devotion to attending church, his prayers before every family meal, and the values he shared with those around him. His faith, like his love for his family, was something he lived every day.

Family gatherings were especially important to Bob. He looked forward to the Temple Family Reunions held by Wanda’s family every Labor Day weekend, where he could spend time with loved ones, catch up, share stories, and enjoy being surrounded by family. But to Bob, family was never limited to those related by blood or marriage. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome, and once you were part of his life, you were family.

Throughout his many careers and the years in between, Bob made friends wherever he went. He was the kind of man people genuinely enjoyed being around, someone who was easy to love and who gave that love freely in return.

Bob was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Elizabeth Stabler; his beloved sister, Janet Sue Brooking; and his son-in-law, Peter Cecil.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Wanda Stabler; his children, Bobby (Aaron) Stabler, Dee (Bob) Roberson, Tony Stabler, and Melody (Mike) Desmarais; his grandchildren, Rob (Niki) Roberson, Tracy (Brian) Neuliep, Cory (Erica) Bieber, Mikey (Heidi) Desmarais, Sean (Madison) Stabler, Darren (Jacey) Desmarais, Tyler (Brittney) Desmarais, and Caiti (Jake) Merchant; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Chloe, Bentley, Matthew, Bianca, Addie, Nessa, CC, Dae, and Griffin. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and countless others whose lives were made better simply by knowing him.

Bob leaves behind so much more than the years he lived or the work he accomplished. He leaves behind a marriage that stood the test of time, a family built on generations of love, and memories that will continue to be shared around dinner tables, at family reunions, and whenever someone remembers a story about him. His hardworking spirit, unwavering faith, generous heart, and love for his family will live on through everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

He was so deeply loved, and he will be so dearly missed.

Visitation and Funeral Services

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Bob on Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at:

Forsythe Gould Funeral Home
507 S. State Street
Manhattan, IL 60442

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at:

Hague Funeral Home
23 W. Riley Street
Medora, IN 47260

Burial will follow at White River Valley Cemetery, Medora, IN.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made directly to the family to help cover funeral and service expenses during this difficult and unexpected time. Any contribution, no matter the amount, is sincerely appreciated, as are the prayers, kindness, and support shown to the family.