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BORN
1924
DIED
2025
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Robert Corey Obituary
October 28, 1924 - September 5, 2025
Robert "Bob" R Corey, 100, of Decatur, Ill., peacefully passed away Friday, September 5, 2025, at Vonderlieth Living Center in Mt. Pulaski, with his children by his side.
A visitation will be held 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home in Decatur, Ill. Service will follow immediately after at 12 p.m. Tuesday, September 9, 2025. Burial will be at Graceland Cemetery. Memorials in Robert's honor may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
Bob was born October 28, 1924, in Decatur, Ill., the son of John H. and Geraldine V (Gaddis) Corey. He married Norma J. Dawley on May 19, 1946, and was by her side until her passing October 30, 2024. After serving his country in WWII and Korea, he retired as a Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army. He then became a firefighter for the Decatur Fire Department, and later as City Fire Marshall. He then worked as a Regional Arson investigator for the state of Illinois prior to retirement.
When he wasn't spending time with family and friends, Bob could be found cheering on the Chicago Cubs and Bears, or volunteering at Scovill Zoo. He was a member of Grace Methodist Church, and Master Mason 32nd Degree with the Masonic Lodge in Decatur.
Surviving are his son, Robert David Corey (Terri) of Maryville, Tenn.; daughter, Karen J. Corey of Morris, Ill.; grandchildren, Sara Punke, Selina Najdanovich, Rob Corey and Ryan Corey; and great-grandchildren, Will Punke, Landon Punke, Fiona Punke, Dean Najdanovich, Aiden Tamez, Adryana Corey, and Ryland Corey.
Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 78 years, Norma Corey; his parents; and his two siblings, Helene Childers and Georgianna Maldaner.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes at www.brintlingerandearl.com.
Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home
2827 N Oakland Ave, Decatur, IL, 62526
217-875-1283
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Corey
Sponsored by Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes - Decatur.
2 Entries
Gini Smith
September 9, 2025
To the family of Bob Corey,
Bob (and Norma) were a beautiful
couple that truly loved each other FOREVER! We have lost a true patriot!
I first met them when i worked at the Children´s Museum where they volunteered. We always stayed in touch with each other one way or another. Bob´s story about WWII is amazing! Bob spoke about his service to our country from WWII. When i told him about taking a free
Flight in a Stearman bi-plane he couldn´t get signed up fast enough!
When they decided they needed more help they left their home and
Moved to assisted living. I would visit them, and bring chocolate ice cream from a local restaurant. I think they looked forward to that more than seeing me!
Then there were feet issues that Bob couldn´t take care of anymore and he would call me for his pedicure. His stories will live on as he is one of the greatest generation!!!
Rest in peace Bob, "you did good"!
As he always said to me after his pedi!
Love ya Bob and Norma!
Gini
Linda Cox
September 9, 2025
Sending thoughts and prayers to your family. I remember your parents coming into First National Bank of Decatur for many year before I retired. They were always so
happy and sweet. Sending my condolences.
Most sincerely
Linda Cox
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Memorial Events
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Sep
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Funeral services provided by:
Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes - Decatur2827 N. Oakland Ave., Decatur, IL 62526
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