Robert "Bob" Boris

Age 71, longtime resident of Wilmington, Illinois and formerly of Joliet, Illinois passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Friday, January 9, 2026.

Born on January 9, 1955, in Decatur, Illinois, Robert was the beloved son of Michael and Mildred (Ashley) Boris. He was raised and educated in Joliet and graduated from Joliet Central High School with the Class of 1973. On January 24, 1976, Bob married the love of his life, Eileen Lukas. Together, they made their home in Wilmington, where they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and family.

Bob was a dedicated and skilled carpenter, proudly working for 30 years as a member of Local 174 Union. Known for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship, he took great pride in his profession.

In his free time, Bob enjoyed golfing and fishing, especially his memorable trips to Reelfoot Lake in Tennessee and Lake Erie. Over the past 15 years, he developed a passion for coin collecting. He also loved solving crossword puzzles and was known for being an exceptionally organized man. Bob was an avid sports fan, particularly of the Chicago Bears and Cubs. Bob cherished his time living along the Kankakee River, where he built his home and lovingly tended to his large gardens. Above all else, he adored being a father, papa, and uncle to all who adored him. Bob was a kind, dependable man who was loved by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Eileen; children: Nathan Boris and Tess (fiancé Travis Battrell) Boris; he was a "papa" to two grandchildren: Lukas and Maxwell Whitaker; siblings: Linda (Michael) Born, and Michael (Janice) Boris; brother and sisters-in-law: Paul Lukas, Cheryl Lukas, Nancy (George Capista) Haviland, Donald (Lisa) Lukas, and Julie Boris; as well as numerous nieces and nephews who thought very highly of him.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Carol Boris; brother, John Boris; parents in-law: Paul and Ethel Lukas.

Donations may be made as gifts in Bob's name to the Kuzma Care Cottage in Wilmington.

Per his wishes, cremation rites are being accorded.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington, on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service at 5:00 p.m.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guestbook, upload photographs, and share Bob’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland, & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)