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BORN
1930
DIED
2025
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Robert Duchene Obituary
Born: July 22, 1930 in Joliet, IL
Died: May 17, 2025 in Minooka, IL
Robert John Duchene "Papa Bob" of Joliet, IL, died Saturday, May 17, 2025, age 94. Devoted husband of the late Irene Marie Duchene, nee Drout; loving father of Debra (Fred) Lenz and Robert C. (Kathleen) Duchene; cherished grandfather of Lisa Wheatley Houdek, Eryn Gray, Jon (Katie) Wheatley, Ashleigh (Karl) Darin, Keara (Thomas) Rusak, Chris (Frieda) Lenz and Eric Lenz; dear great grandfather of Trevor and Chloe Jean Gray, Isaiah Darin, Jacob and Kaleb Rusak, Lily Gourley and Adegboyega Lenz; beloved brother of Rita (Fred) Seneker and Gayle (James) Tennant; Fond uncle to many; dearest lifelong friend of Bill and Shirley Lawrence. Preceded in death by parents, Paul and Pauline (nee Homberg) Duchene, brother Roy (the late Mary) Duchene and his most cherished companions Frankie, Muffy and numerous boxers.
Robert worked as a meat cutter in the Joliet area for over 27 years. He retired from Easterseals Joliet Region after 25 years. Since 1968, he has been a proud life member to the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge #300 in Joliet, IL. Robert was a Veteran of the US Armed Forces serving as an Army Corporal Technician during the Korean War where he received the National Defense Service Medal.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be deeply appreciated to Easterseals Joliet Region, Attn: Online Giving Coordinator, 212 Barney Dr., Joliet, IL 60435 or Lightways Hospice, Attn: Development Office, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431.
Visitation, Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 9:00 am until time of funeral services at 11:00 am at the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home, 1500 Black Rd., Joliet, IL. Interment to follow at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. Arrangements by Eryn M. Gray, Funeral Director
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Duchene
Sponsored by Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home - Joliet.
Randi Urquidi
June 10, 2025
Such a great man! Loved Bob & Irene so much! Irene was my mom Rosemarie's best friend! So sorry for your loss. They are all up in Heaven playing the Lord's Bingo! Much love to the family!
Steve Duchene
June 1, 2025
Sincere condolences to Bob, Cathy and Debby. Great times with family growing up. Riverview, Shakeys Pizza, midget races at the stadium. Your parents were loving, caring people who loved each other, family and of course, you! RIP Uncle Bob.
Ron and Greg DeJule
May 29, 2025
Our thoughts and love and prayers go out to you and yours. Bob was a great guy, always will be
David Prange
May 24, 2025
Sorry to hear of Bob's passing. My family lived across the street on Brentwood for many years, and my dad, John, had been friends with Bob since they were in High School. Blessings to the Duchene family.
Debra Condotti
May 22, 2025
On behalf of all of the staff at Easterseals we extend condolences to the family and friends of Bob Duchene who loved him so dearly. We remember Bob's sense of humor, stories, good heart and smile. We felt watched over and safe at the Easterseals Center when he was here with us during his 25 years of service. Thank you for your Service to our Country. Thank you for your generosity to our Mission and caring concern for the children and adults with disabilities, those with special needs and their families served by Easterseals.
Blessings,
DebCondotti
May he rest in peace. He will be missed.
Eryn Gray
May 19, 2025
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May
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Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home - Joliet1500 Black Road, Joliet, IL 60435
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