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Robert Hollenbeck Obituary
Born: October 1, 1919 in Norman Township, IL
Died: November 24, 2023 in Ottawa, IL
Robert "Bob" Edward Hollenbeck, of Seneca, IL, passed away Friday, November 24, 2023 at Pleasant View Lutheran Home at the age of 104.
Bob was born October 1, 1919, in Norman Township, IL, to James Edward and Ida Winifred (Hanley) Hollenbeck. He married Evelyn Rosendahl on April 26, 1941 in Kinsman, IL. She passed away on February 27, 1996.
Bob was an extremely skilled finish carpenter and a member of the Carpenters Union for 70 years. He built trophy cases at Seneca High School and the altar at St. Mary of the Fields Church in Grand Ridge. He always wanted to teach his skills to the next generation and taught in the Carpenter Apprentice program at the Grundy Area Vocational Center in Morris for many years. At age 96, he was very proud to receive an honorary Seneca High School diploma. He was also an avid farmer and farmed 80 acres and raised sheep. He loved music and was a very skilled banjo and guitar player. He organized and led his own group, the Rhythmaires for many years. He enjoyed taking trips with family and thru the Mazon Bank. He enjoyed family trips to Branson to hear music. He liked to go to restaurants, especially R Place in Morris and get coffee with the guys everyday. He was a member of St. Patrick's Church and was an Usher for over 60 years.
He is survived by his daughters, Elaine (Deb Schmitt) Hollenbeck Wheeler of Madison, WI and Patricia (Art) Meierdirk of St. Charles, IL; his grandchildren, Jenifer and Jessica Wheeler and Tim and Amanda Meierdirk; his great grandchildren, Amelia, Kayleb, and Cody Meierdirk; and his special nephew, James (Sheila) Hollenbeck.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Evelyn, and his siblings, Fayette Hollenbeck and Julia Phipps.
Visitation will be Monday, November 27, from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Osborne-Nelson Funeral Home. Mass of Christian burial will be at 11:00am on Tuesday, November 28 at St. Patrick's Church in Seneca, with Fr. Bowan Schmitt officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to St. Patrick's Church in Seneca.
The online guest book may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.ottawafuneralhome.com
Osborne-Nelson Funeral Home
135 E. Lincoln Street
Seneca, Illinois 61360
815-357-6172
www.ottawafuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Hollenbeck
Sponsored by Osborne-Nelson Funeral Home.
Gerald L (Jerry) Castelli
November 28, 2023
Sorry to hear of the passing of another long-time musician. Not many of us left. My condolences to Bob´s family.
Jane Looft Turner
November 27, 2023
Dear Elaine, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Daddy Bob always brought joy to others and will be dearly missed by many. Know I am here for you if I can be of help in any way. Hugs, Jane
Gary Wicks
November 27, 2023
Elaine
I'm so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. You were very fortunate to be able to spend many things and time with him over all the years. Seneca and the world is a better place because of his presence. Relish the memories.
Debby Campbell
November 26, 2023
I met Uncle Bob at the Marseilles Diner on a Friday morning. I really enjoyed watching him enjoy having breakfast with some of the men from the Baptist Church. Thank you so much Jim for sharing your very special uncle with all of us. He would just make you happy watching him enjoy people and life. He will truly be missed. I pray for peace and strength to you and his family in this time of loss. Love you all and miss you all
Kathy Brinkman
November 26, 2023
Elaine, I am so sorry for your loss! I know how much you lived and admired your dad, and I really enjoyed your regular posts. He seemed almost indestructible, and he surely lived his life to the fullest right up to the end! I'm sure you will miss him very much!
Becky Jones
November 26, 2023
Bob was an amazing man. He was so full of life, joy and knowledge. I loved visiting with him and will miss his smile!! My deepest sympathy to all. Love, Becky Jones
The Staff of Osborne-Nelson Funeral Home
November 27, 2023
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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