Robert O. “Bob” Farris, age 88 of Collinsville, passed away on Saturday, September 18, 2021, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville.
Bob was born on June 27, 1933, in East St. Louis, IL. The only child of Orell and Ruth (nee Sheehey) Farris. He has now joined his beloved wife of 65 years, Beatrice. He leaves behind his two sons, Mike and Tom; three grandchildren, Sam, Hayley, and Hunter; and his best friend and adopted son, George Madigan.
Bob served in the Army after high school before starting his nearly 40-year career with Burlington Northern Railroad. He was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church and School for 31 years; after retirement, he worked part-time for the school. This led to him becoming a morning fixture there. A corner table, affectionately known as “Bob’s Cozy Corner” was set up for him where he served donuts, coffee, and tea to the faculty and students.
He was a lifetime lover of baseball, playing many years throughout his time in high school, the Army, and with the Fountain of Youth Baseball League. He also coached both Mike and Tom’s Khoury league teams. Later he went on to become President of the league. He was a die-hard fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Bob brought joy to all who knew him and will be deeply missed.
Bob will be cremated and no services will be held at this time.
Memorials may be made in Bob’s honor to Partners for Pets and will be received at the funeral home. Please make checks payable to the organization and mail to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at barrywilsonfuneralhome.com
