Robert W. Sherwood's Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - Robert Wayne Sherwood, age 71 of Charleston, passed away on Friday, September 25, 2015 in the comfort of his home, following a courageous battle with lymphoma lasting four and one-half years. Visitation for family and friends will be held Tuesday, September 29, 2015 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston. Funeral Services honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2015 at the funeral chapel with Pastor Ray Finney officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery in Charleston. It is requested that thoughtful donations in his honor be made to Genesis Animal Rescue or to Wesley United Methodist Church in Charleston where he attended with his family. Gifts may be left during the visitation or service or may be mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920. Bob was born August 9, 1944 in Charleston, IL to W. Wayne and Alpha Ruth (Ingram) Sherwood. Following the tragic death of his father during World War II, his mother married Leland "Bus" Lee, the man he affectionately called "dad" for the next 65 years. On May 29, 1966, Bob married the love of his life, Juanita Lanman, and they have shared a loving marriage and friendship these past 49 years. In addition to his loving wife, Juanita, Bob is survived by his daughters, Anne Sherwood Hank and husband Rick of San Jose, CA and Becky Kline and husband Chris of Medford, OR; three grandchildren, Ricky and Kate Hank and Ava Kline; his parents, Leland "Bus" and Alpha Lee of Charleston; two sisters-in-law, Linda (Ken) Probst of Mattoon and Dorothy Wise of Pekin, IL; a brother-in-law, Don (Anne) Lanman of Champaign, IL; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. He also leaves his special canine companion, BJ who Bob and Juanita rescued through the Genesis Animal Rescue program. In addition to his father, Bob was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Jerry Wise and Norman Bailey, who Bob considered to be his lifelong brother. Bob was a 1962 graduate of Charleston High School and a 1966 graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a Business Degree. He accepted a position with Illinois Consolidated Telephone Company in 1966, serving in various management positions. He retired in 2009 following a 43 year career with ICTC. Bob enjoyed growing up on the farm, being in 4-H Club and showing Duroc pigs, taking home several awards both at County and State Fairs. As an adult he enjoyed returning to the farm to help his dad, especially during the planting season. Bob liked the outdoors and would find things to do in the yard just to be outside; and, spending time in their sunroom, watching the various wildlife activities in their backyard. He was a fan of Western movies and enjoyed several trips to the Western United States with his family. He liked watching football and was especially fond of watching Illini football and basketball games. Bob's family was always near and dear to his heart. Playing with his grandchildren were truly joyous times that he treasured. He was a devoted son who took good care of his parents; a loving father to his daughters; an encouraging and supportive husband to Juanita; and was a man of integrity who was thoughtful, kind and respectful to everyone. Those who knew and loved Bob will forever cherish their many fond memories. Click to view Bob's memorial video.
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