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Robert Byrne Obituary
Princeton, IL - Robert Cooper Byrne, Jr, 86, was born on December 29, 1937, in Northampton, MA. He resided in Princeton, IL until his passing on Saturday, February 10, 2024.
Bob was born in Northampton, MA to the late, Dr. Robert Byrne, Sr. and Ethel (Redman) Byrne.
He graduated from Smith Academy HS in 1955, followed by Mt. Hermon School in 1956. Bob earned a BSc degree from Union College in 1960 and obtained a MA in Science from UCONN in 1967, followed by a MS in Chemistry from the same university in 1970.
Bob began as a high school chemistry teacher in Danielson, CT, from 1963 to 1967. In 1970, he joined the faculty of Illinois Valley Community College, where he taught chemistry for 31 years until his retirement in 2001.
In 1997, he received the prestigious Catalyst Award for his exceptional teaching skills and commitment to his students' success. Bob's contributions earned him the status of an emeritus member of the American Chemical Society.
He actively served as a weather observer for the CoCoRahs Network since 2012, providing crucial data to enhance meteorological understanding. Bob also worked as a Co-op Observer for the National Weather Service, furthering his commitment to weather reporting. He was a member and served as the President of the Optimist Club.
Bob found joy in skiing, biking, and fly fishing, relishing the beauty of the outdoors. A die-hard fan of the Red Sox, he dedicated countless hours to supporting his favorite team. His green thumb was evident in his love for gardening from flowers to fruits and vegetables and participated in local fairs, winning numerous awards.
A private memorial service and burial will be at a later date in Hatfield, MA.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 33 plus years, Pamela Byrne of Princeton, IL, and his daughter, Roxy Lee. He will be deeply missed by his brothers, Dr. Richard Byrne, Dr. David Byrne, and William Byrne. Bob's memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren, Jackson Smeeton and Makenzie Smeeton.
Preceding Bob are his parents, Dr. Robert Byrne, Sr. and Ethel Byrne.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hatfield Historical Society or IVCC Foundation https://www.ivcc.edu/givetoivcc/
with a designation of scholarships or campus beautification.
Online condolences may be directed to Norberg Memorial Home www.norbergfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Byrne
3 Entries
Denny and Phyllis Miller
February 18, 2024
Pam, Phyllis and I are so sad to hear of Bob's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Denny and PhAllison Miller
Margaret / Dan Martinkus
February 13, 2024
I will miss Bob and his quiet ways along with memories of helping with Matthew´s scout troop, and his generous help in flowers from his yard for son Ben´s wedding, always ready to chat at the library with Carol, then Grant and Julie. I send these thoughts to Pam and the whole family. fondly, Margaret and Dan Martinkus
Tim Horger - IVCC retiree
February 13, 2024
Bob made me feel welcome at IVCC when I joined the faculty back in August of 1988. Over the past 35 years what began as colleagues in the same department changed into a friendship that continued into our retirement years. I enjoyed the many conversations we shared and am grateful that the paths of our lives intersected. I extend my condolences to his wife, Pam,
Tim Horger
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Funeral services provided by:
Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. - Princeton701 E Thompson St, Princeton, IL 61356
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