Robert G. Shanks

SGT. Robert Graham Shanks, age 75, of Peoria, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026 at his home.
Robert was born June 29, 1950 in Kewanee, IL a son to Leonard and Claire (Doane) Shanks. He proudly served his country as both a United States Marine and Army veteran during the Vietnam conflict. His service was marked by dedication and honor, and he was the recipient of numerous military decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, and Navy Unit Citation. His military service remained a defining and deeply meaningful part of his life. Robert worked for CAT for over 30 years until his retirement.
Outside of his service, Robert enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and interests. He found peace in hunting and fishing, took great pride in assembling model trains, and delighted in collecting novelties. He loved to travel and was always happy browsing shops in search of something unique. Robert was an animal lover, with a special affection for Rottweilers, and his love for them was well known by family and friends. He will also be remembered for his enjoyment of boating, waterskiing, hiking, RC Cars, boats and airplanes.
Robert cherished attending military reunions, where he could reconnect with fellow veterans and reminisce over shared experiences and stories. He was also fondly known in his community for his elaborate Halloween decorations, which brought joy to children and adults alike each year.
Above all else, Robert's greatest joy was his family-especially his grandchildren. He treasured every moment spent with them and took immense pride in being part of their lives.
Robert will be remembered for his service, his stories, his passions, and the love he shared so freely with those around him. His legacy of devotion, humor, and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Survivors include two children: Michael (Erin) Shanks of Peoria and Jonathan (Mindy) Shanks of Texas; 13 grandchildren: Amelia Shanks, Emma-liah Shanks, Ayrika Davis, Ciera Shanks, Jennifer Shanks, Kayla (Manuel) Rios, Megan Shanks, Josey Shanks, Layna Shanks, Kellie (Eric) Shirey, Samantha Collins, and Jackson Fabia Jr. and Kamden Richie; 11 great-grandchildren; three sisters: Janice (Jim) Hagen, Cindy (John) Quigley and Barb (Tim) Gibbs; as well as one sister-in-law Mary Shanks.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Tom Shanks.
Visitation will be held at Wright & Salmon Mortuary on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 between the hours of 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at Wright & Salmon Mortuary on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 10:00 am with an additional visitation 30 minutes prior to services. Graveside services with military honors will follow in Swan Lake Memory Gardens.
Preferred memorials in Robert's memory may be made to PCAPS, Greater Peoria Honor Flight, American Legion Post #2 or Marine Corps League of Pekin.
Friends and family are encouraged to log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Robert's memorial page via social media.
Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)