Robert John Duchene

Robert John Duchene "Papa Bob" of Joliet, IL, died Saturday, May 17, 2025, age 94. Devoted husband of the late Irene Marie Duchene, nee Drout; loving father of Debra (Fred) Lenz and Robert C. (Kathleen) Duchene; cherished grandfather of Lisa Wheatley Houdek, Eryn Gray, Jon (Katie) Wheatley, Ashleigh (Karl) Darin, Keara (Thomas) Rusak, Chris (Frieda) Lenz and Eric Lenz; dear great grandfather of Trevor and Chloe Jean Gray, Isaiah Darin, Jacob and Kaleb Rusak, Lily Gourley and Adegboyega Lenz; beloved brother of Rita (Fred) Seneker and Gayle (James) Tennant; Fond uncle to many; dearest lifelong friend of Bill and Shirley Lawrence. Preceded in death by parents, Paul and Pauline (nee Homberg) Duchene, brother Roy (the late Mary) Duchene and his most cherished companions Frankie, Muffy and numerous boxers.Robert worked as a meat cutter in the Joliet area for over 27 years. He retired from Easterseals Joliet Region after 25 years. Since 1968, he has been a proud life member to the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge #300 in Joliet, IL. Robert was a Veteran of the US Armed Forces serving as an Army Corporal Technician during the Korean War where he received the National Defense Service Medal.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be deeply appreciated to Easterseals Joliet Region, Attn: Online Giving Coordinator, 212 Barney Dr., Joliet, IL 60435 or Lightways Hospice, Attn: Development Office, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431.Visitation, Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 9:00 am until time of funeral services at 11:00 am at the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home, 1500 Black Rd., Joliet, IL. Interment to follow at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. Arrangements by Eryn M. Gray, Funeral Director