Robin "Rob" Garkie

Robin "Rob" Garkie, 65, of Quincy, passed away Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Rob was born July 19, 1960, in Quincy, IL to Paul and Luetta (Harrison) Garkie. He was married to Tina Anne Johnson on June 4, 1983, at her parents home in Lima, IL

Other survivors include his three children, Jenna Bailey (Matt) of Highland, IL, Keith Garkie (Dani) of Simpsonville, SC, and Becca Garkie of Quincy; five grandchildren, Hadley, Lincoln, Jackson, Tage, Ayla; two brothers, Kenneth O. Garkie (Bonnie) and Robert L. Garkie (LeAnn); and several nieces and nephews. Rob was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Marty E. Garkie.

A graduate of Quincy High School in 1978, Rob furthered his education at John Wood Community College. He dedicated 33 years of his career to Knapheide, first as a design engineer and then a manufacturing engineer, where he was known for his meticulous work and innovative solutions. Rob was also a member of Madison Park Christian Church.

Rob was an avid hunter; he recently tagged a 17-point buck, a feat that brought him immense joy. Fishing was another of Rob's joys, with several secret "honey holes" on the Mississippi River providing him with many successful catches. His green thumb was evident in the vegetables he cultivated and the zinnias he grew for Tina, a testament to his nurturing spirit.

The outdoors was Rob's sanctuary, and in 2015, he and Tina purchased an old farm in rural Missouri. There, he poured his heart into building a cabin, their home away from home, where he enjoyed bird-watching and planted fruit trees, blackberries, and food plots for wildlife. A lifelong-learner, Rob enjoyed watching The Learning Channel and National Geographic, earning him the title of "walking encyclopedia" as described by his children. His eclectic taste in music, ranging from country to soul and rock and roll, was a source of joy and relaxation.

Above all, Rob cherished the moments spent with his family. The memories created during family gatherings, outdoor adventures, and quiet evenings will be held dearly by those who loved him. Rob's absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Pallbearers will be Carson Noble, Floyd Combs, Travis Pitford, Dobbie Johnson, Denver Garkie, Tim Spurgeon, Scott Garkie, and Levi Spurgeon.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the family are appreciated.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.