Robert Frederick “Bob” Black, age 89 of Shullsburg, passed away Sunday, July 2, 2017 at Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County in Darlington, with his family by his side. He was born Feb. 25, 1928 in rural Shullsburg the son of Robert and Izeta (Wickler) Black. Bob attended Kingsley country school. He was united in marriage to Kathleen Lenore Rodda on Feb. 25, 1950 at Apple River United Methodist Church in Apple River, Ill. Robert lived in rural Shullsburg his entire life where he owned and operated his farm until retiring in 1995 when his son Tim purchased the farm. However, Bob continued to stay busy on the farm up until the end.
Bob is survived by four children: Pamela (Gary) Swigart of rural Gratiot, Steven Black of Coon Valley, Timothy (Dianna) Black of Morris, Ill., and Randal (Scott Martin) Black of Hacienda Heights, Calif.; and eight grandchildren: Brandon (Lili) Black, Reverend Timothy (Kathy) Swigart, Christal (Leah Durtschi) Swigart, Gavin (Karla) Swigart, Nicholas (Kailey Jenkins) Black, Breanna (Mario Sparto) Black, Connor Martin-Black, Chase Martin-Black; six great grandchildren: Jarren, Reagan, Ashlyn and Hudson Swigart, Maya and Lawson Black. He was preceded in death by his parents: Robert and Izeta Black; wife: Kathleen Lenore (Rodda); an infant sister: Roberta Black; and one daughter-in-law: Barbara Black.
Bob was a member of Darlington United Methodist Church in Darlington. He served as the Monticello Township Treasurer for several years. Bob was also a deliveryman for several routes of the Shopping News and a relief milk truck driver for Roelli Cheese. He enjoyed dancing, going to all family sporting events, and farming. Family meant everything to him. Bob will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends.
Funeral Services were held Saturday, July 8, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Darlington United Methodist Church (546 Park Place, Darlington) where Rev. Angela Utter officiated. A visitation was held on Friday July 7, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Darlington United Methodist Church and on Saturday July 8 from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the church. Burial was in Evergreen Cemetery in Shullsburg. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Bob’s name. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.