Finch Funeral Home & Crematorium

Robert G. Gerrard

August 21, 1956 - December 22, 2017


Robert “Bob” Gerrard, 61, of DeKalb, Illinois, peacefully passed away on December 22, 2017, at Kishwaukee Hospital, surrounded by his family. His unexpected and early death was the result of a massive heart attack.
Bob was born August 21,1956, in South Bend, Indiana and was predeceased by his parents Robert Charles Gerrard and Patricia Jeanette (June) Gerrard.
He is survived by his sister, Christine Ann Gerrard of Elkhart, Indiana; his true love, Kathy Guyer of DeKalb; cousins Patricia Lynn Yost (Marsha Bowlin) of Fort Myers, Florida: and Kathy Yost Benham (Chris Clarke) of Richmond Virginia; as well as his many friends.
Bob graduated from John Adams High School in South Bend, Indiana and attended Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. Since childhood, Bob was an artist. He worked for the Kane County Chronicle for more than 20 years until 2008 when he left his position as Photo Editor and Photographer. He also worked as a freelance photographer and served as a volunteer, photographing events for non-profit organizations. Bob was known for both his technical photography skills and his ability to blend into the background which allowed him to capture the immediacy and emotion of his subjects from sports events to wildlife. Children and animals intuitively sensed his respect and gentleness for his subjects and this trust allowed Bob to capture their essence for his newspaper images. Most recently, he worked at Binny’s Beverage Depot.
Bob’s gentle spirit was consistently reflected in his deep love and respect of nature whether he was feeding birds, hiking in the woods or rescuing a fawn during his volunteer service with Oaken Acres Wildlife Center. Bob was known for spoiling Ben and Phil, his much loved golden retrievers. He loved cooking, hiking, cycling, and traveling. White Pines State Park and Paris, France held special places in his heart.
As a highly curious lifelong learner, Bob easily became passionate and knowledgeable once a topic captured his attention. As a young boy, he was fascinated by military history and throughout his life he became a self-taught historian with a large collection of WWII military memorabilia.
Bob never met a stranger and was an engaged conversationalist on topics that could range from Midwest weather to deep discussions on obscure details about medieval armor.
Bob will also be remembered for his sense of humor. By blending his dry wit with his mischievous delivery, he would lead listeners down his comic trail and playfully wait for responses.
His kindness, gentleness, generosity, artistry, intellect and compassion will be deeply missed by all who knew Bob.
Bob’s family members would like to extend their gratitude to the first responders from the DeKalb police and fire departments and to the doctors, nurses and caretakers at Kishwaukee Hospital for all they did for him and his loved ones during his last days.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, condolences and memorials can be sent to the family via Finch Funeral Home, 310 Oak Street, DeKalb, IL 60115.

Robert's Guestbook


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