Robert John Hendron

Robert “Bob” John Hendron, 78 of Urbana, Illinois passed away September 7, 2023, at Tuscola Health Care Center. He was born June 3, 1945, in Kankakee, IL to Clarence and Marie (Paradis) Hendron. He and Helen Katz married each other in 1970 and 2004. He was preceded in death by Helen and his sister Alma Campbell. Bob, most recently known as Grandpa Bob, is survived by his only child, daughter Heidi Baker (David) of Urbana IL, grandsons Devyn and Matthew Baker, and siblings Dave (Nancy) Hendron, Rich (Renene) Hendron and Mary (Larry) Lukow and brother-in-law, David Campbell. Bob declared his belief in Bahá’u’lláh , Prophet-Founder of the Baha’i Faith, in November 1969. The central aim of the Baha’i Faith is to establish peace on earth both outwardly and in the hearts of mankind. For nearly fifty-four years, being and growing as a Baha’i was the center around which his life revolved. At different times in his work life, and in no particular order, he was a security guard for the Bahà'i House of Worship in Wilmette, IL, mail room clerk for the National Center of the Bahà'is of the United States, a personal assistant to elderly and disabled adults, a house painter, an administrator, and, most impressively, a renovator in and around Galesburg IL. Outside of work he was a long-letter writer, regular journal keeper, paint-by-number master, valued voice in several choirs, pianist, gymnast, trapeze artist in a circus, ice skater, avid fisherman, mentor to many youth and young adults, and enchanting storyteller. When he told stories or explained concepts dear to his heart, his listeners were often spellbound and delighted by his use of language as well as his insights, humor, and clarity. A memorial service was held on September 10, 2023, at the Baha’i Center in Urbana after the burial service at Eastlawn Burial Park, Urbana.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert John Hendron, please visit our floral store.