Robert A. "Bob" Smolich

1937 - 2025

Robert A. "Bob" Smolich
Born: September 14, 1937
Died: June 12, 2025
Age 87, late of Crest Hill passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Born in Joliet and was a lifelong resident of Crest Hill. Member of Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, Joliet, and former Member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Joliet. Retired from Teamsters Union Local 179 after 40 years of dedicated service. Founding member of the Crest Hill Police Department. Bob was an avid fisherman who found great joy fishing with his father, brothers, and uncle. He enjoyed golfing especially with his wife, Virg, relatives and many dear friends. In his spare time he loved tinkering around the house, working in the garage, he was truly a " Jack of all trades", and there wasn't much he couldn't do or fix. He taught his daughters and family many things over the years and now his talents will live on for generations to come. Above all else cherished spending time with his family.
Preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Mary (Nee Spreitzer) Smolich: one sister in infancy, Joann Smolich; and son in law, Marshal Gibson.
Survived by his devoted wife 66 years, Virginia (Nee Strahanoski) Smolich; three cherished daughters, Phyllis (Jay) Ringo of Joliet, Mary (late Marshal) Gibson of Algonquin, IL, and Annette (Preston) Gilmer of Delano, MN; eight cherished grandchildren, Samantha, Carly, and Michelle Ringo, Erik, Luke and Connor (Justine) Gibson, and Dylan (Emma) and Cole (Kaitlyn) Gilmer; two adored great grandchildren, Hatten and Nash Gilmer; four loving siblings, Richard, James (Lynn), Raymond (Arlene) and Charles (Janet) Smolich; and many loved family members and friends. The Smolich family would like to thank all the Doctors, their staff, the entire staff at Storypoint, Romeoville, and the team at Lightways Hospice for all the love, care and support over the years. A special heartfelt thank you to his niece, Laura for all of her visits and time. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Lightways Hospice in Robert's name would be greatly appreciated.
Per Robert's wishes cremation rites have been respectfully addressed.
Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in the O'Neil Funeral Home Chapel 1105 E. 9th St. Lockport, IL 60441, from 10:00am until time of Memorial Service at 12noon with Fr. Bill Dewan of Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus officiating. In Honor of Bob NO neckties.
Family and friends can sign the online guestbook at www.oneilfuneralhome.com