ROCKFORD — Robert Hal “Bob” Felker, 71, was welcomed into the presence of his Lord and Savior on December 18^th, 2023, after a courageous six-year battle with CMML/AML. He was born September 20^th, 1952, in Rockford, IL; son to Robert and Suzanne (Billig) Felker. He was united in marriage to Georgia Delores “Dee” Myers on August 18^th, 1979. They were married for 33 years with Dee proceeding him in death on August 11, 2012. They lovingly raised three children. Bob married Barbara Lyford on October 12, 2014, and they shared nine years of marriage together. 

Bob graduated in 1970 from Rochelle Township High School, Kishwaukee Community College and Pillsbury Baptist Bible College as his preparation for vocational ministry. Later, he graduated from Highland Community College to pursue his heart’s desire of caring for others through the vocation of nursing. He provided exemplary care to others through Swedish American Home Health Care. Bob spent his free time serving others through mercy ministries, prison ministry, nursing home visitations, and welcoming others into church on a Sunday morning with his contagious smile that will be greatly missed. The uncommon and unconditional love Bob gave to many was experienced closest by his family. Whether through a daily phone call to his Mom, a handwritten note of encouragement to his children or a thoughtful gesture for his grandkids – Bob was intentional to show selfless love to everyone. Because he knew so closely Christ’s love for him, Bob’s legacy is the richest anyone can have - he deeply loved others and he was deeply loved by others.

Bob enjoyed cheering on his Green Bay Packers and spending leisure time at Oaklane Farm – a special place where his family has gathered for six generations. He loved God’s creation and savored his memories of the mountains of Utah where he spent much of his childhood as well as his family trips to the Caribbean, England, Florida, California, NYC, and Kansas City.

Bob is survived by his wife, Barb Felker of Rockford; children, Sam (Michelle Boxleitner) Felker of Mt. Morris, IL; Sarah (Jacob) Zaske of Olathe, KS; Suzie (Mark) Hester of Marengo, IL; step-son, Jared (Krista) Lyford of Rockton, IL; grandchildren, Caleb & Grace Zaske, Claire & Emma Hester and expectant grandson, Mother, Sue Felker of Rochelle, IL; Sister, Barb (Ray) Reineck of Rochelle, IL; Brother, Bill (Janell) Felker of Minneapolis, MN; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceded in death by his wife, Dee Felker, and Father, Robert Felker, Sister-in-laws and Brother-in-laws, Una (Don) Doering and Josie (Rich) Schalin.

Visitation on December 27, 2023, from 10 am to 10:45 am at Forest City Church, 1280 S. Alpine Rd. Rockford; followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11 am. Luncheon to follow. Interment in Oakwood Cemetery, Mt. Morris, IL. Son-in-law, Dr. Rev. Jacob Zaske will officiate.  Live Stream of the service can be viewed here: https://my.gather.app/remember/robert-bob-felker  As Bob was a life-long learner, in lieu of flowers, memorials in his honor may be made payable to Edward Jones for a college scholarship fund for his grandchildren. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family.  Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.