Robert E. Bledsaw

DECATUR - Robert E. Bledsaw, 65, of Decatur, succumbed peacefully to cancer at 11:15 a.m. Saturday (April 19, 2008) in the home of his son, surrounded by family. Services to celebrate Robert's life will be 10 a.m. Wednesday in Parkway Church of the Nazarene, with Pastor Mike Tapscott officiating. No visitation. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, with "Flight Home" ceremony. Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials: Parkway Church of the Nazarene. Send condolences: www.gracelandfairlawn.com. Robert was born May 18, 1942, in Decatur, the son of Walter C. and Dorothy E. "Dort" Petrowsky Bledsaw. He graduated from Lakeview High School and Richland Community College and attended Millikin University. He was employed as an engineer by A.W. Cash, Grigoleit, Essex Wire, General Electric and Zexel Illinois, contributing to the development of quadraphonic sound systems. In 1976, he founded The Judges Guild Game Co. of Decatur, which manufactured role-playing games and supplies, with partner Bill Owen. Through this venture, he became president of the company and known worldwide as an author and pioneer of fantasy gaming. Robert was a faithful member of the Parkway Church of the Nazarene, with deep affection for his church family there. Politically, he was an active, liberal Democrat, who hated all war and supported our constitutional liberties. He contributed to many charities and was a devoted and loving son, brother, father, uncle and grandfather. He touched, through his life and works, many lives throughout the world. He is survived by his father of Decatur; sons, Robert E. (Jenny) Bledsaw Jr. of Harristown; Bruce A. (Tammy) Bledsaw of Warrensburg; Walter S. (Kathryn) Bledsaw of Decatur; brothers, Jim (Lynette) Bledsaw of Chanhassen, Minn.; Bill (Priscilla) Bledsaw of Niantic; sisters, Judith (Decie) Huffaker of Murfeesboro, Tenn.; Kathy (Patrick) Eytchison of Lincoln; Debi (Marc) Summerlott of Decatur; former wife, Norma Ellrick of Latham; seven grandchildren, Robert E. III, Martin F., Samuel J., Aaron J., Jason W., Courtney L. and Zane T.; several nephews, nieces, nephews, great-nephews and great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his loving mother; infant daughter, Kathleen Sue; and three infant granddaughters, Elizabeth, Lucinda and Hope. Online guest book at www.legacy.com/herald-review/Obituaries.asp