Robert Leroy Ertl Sr.

Robert L. Ertl (Bob), age 95, passed away peacefully Sunday morning in his Mokena IL home with his family present by his side. He is cherished by his surviving wife of 73 years Katie Ertl, daughter Judy (Joe) Farrell, and Russell (Jammie) Ertl. He was preceded in death by his son Robert L. Ertl Jr. Bob has 8 lovely grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who adored him. Born in Chicago IL, he was the youngest son of George and Marion Ertl. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Marion Kamper, and brother George Ertl.

Bob graduated from CVS High School, and was the second member in his family to be Chicago City wrestling champ while at CVS in 1946. After graduation he attended Purdue University. Bob worked as a mechanic and supervisor for Peoples Gas Light & Coke Company in Chicago for 33 years before retiring. Although he worked primarily as a mechanic supervisor, he was a man of many talents. Bob loved repairing and maintaining cars, and being self-sufficient at home. He was a hard-working do-it-yourself kind of man, and became proficient in many trades. He loved to spend time in his garden, go fishing and boating, and spend time with his family and friends at his family’s farm and his lake cottage. He and his wife also enjoyed traveling across the USA for several years.

Bob was a loving and devoted husband and father who instilled a sense of fairness and strong values in his children. He recently shared, “I had the best life and family and am glad everyone is together and happy”. He will be dearly missed by his wife Katie, family and friends.

In honoring Bob’s wishes, the family will not hold a public service or gathering. They appreciate your understanding during this time and will hold a private service to honor his memory.