Robert S. "Bob" Spalding

1940 - 2025

Robert "Bob" S. Spalding

December 22, 1940 - August 24, 2025

Robert "Bob" S. Spalding, 84, of Taylor Ridge, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bob was born on December 22, 1940, the son of Samuel and Vivian (Anderson) Spalding. He served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1965. On December 7, 1996, he married Carol Erhart, in a heartfelt ceremony at their home in Taylor Ridge. Bob enjoyed a successful career as a real estate appraiser for Oakwood Realty.

An avid enthusiast of aviation, Bob proudly earned his private pilot license, showcasing his love for flight. His passion for the outdoors shone through in his pursuits of hunting and fishing, activities that deepened his connection with nature. Bob's beloved hobby farm, affectionately named the "Kid Magnet," provided a place filled with fun and adventure for his family, fostering vibrant memories that will endure for generations.

A gifted woodworker, Bob spent countless hours creating beautiful pieces that reflected his creative spirit. The time spent on his houseboat along the Mississippi River became a treasured backdrop for lasting memories with family and friends. He dedicated part of his life to his community, being a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus Allouez Council #658 and the GTFO Club, while also inspiring many children as a troop leader for the Boy Scouts.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 12 p.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Rock Island. A visitation will take place one hour prior at the church, allowing loved ones the opportunity to express their condolences and share cherished memories. The family would also like to invite everyone to gather at the family home after the Mass. Memorial contributions may be made in Bob's name to the Knights of Columbus Allouez Council #658 or Boy Scouts Troop 100 in Geneseo, both organizations that held great significance for him.

Those left to cherish Bob's memory are his wife, Carol; children, Tamara Thompson and Mike Spalding; stepchildren, Linda (Mark) Matheis, Tom Erhart, Ben Erhart, Stefani (Kevin) Kopp, and Betsy (Nick) Fischer; grandchildren, Thomas (Denise), Taylor (Ethan), Tanner (Jade), Rachel, Andrew, Joe, T.J., Kayli, Garrett, Josh (Paige), Branden, Kristen (Will), Megan, Olivia, Clover (Ryan), and Lilly (Carlos); great-grandchildren, Troy, Karson, Elias, Samuel, Wesley, Ivy, and Wally; siblings, Malia (David) Sullivan and Elaine Simpson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Dan Thompson; and brother-in-law, Jim Simpson.

"Fist bumps forever from Heaven."

Condolence and memories may be shared with the family online at www.wheelanpressly.com.

Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island

(309) 786-5421