Beloved Father, Grandfather, and Great-Grandfather, Robert Eugene Conreaux, known as “Bob” to many and affectionately called “Pompoo” by a few, passed peacefully from this life on October 18, 2024. He was 89, residing in Glen Carbon and was formerly of Granite City.
Bob was born on August 1, 1935, in Granite City, Illinois, to Eugene and Dorothy (Wells) Conreaux. As the eldest of three children, he developed a strong sense of responsibility early on, a trait that shaped the remarkable man he became—selflessly putting others before himself and finding fulfillment in the happiness of those he loved. Bob’s deep intellectual curiosity matched his devotion to family, and his passion for learning began in his youth. After high school, he joined the ROTC to fund his college education, which led him to Purdue University. There, he graduated with honors as a metallurgical engineer, launching a distinguished and respected career.
Bob’s love story with his first wife, Joanne, began in high school. Married on September 8, 1956, they shared over four decades of unwavering love and devotion. Together, they built a life full of laughter, raising three children—Mary Jo, Robert “Skip,” and Laura—who were the lights of their lives. Shortly after the birth of their youngest, Bob accepted a position at Cerro Copper Industries. Because of his intelligence and tenacity, he quickly earned his way up the corporate ladder, eventual becoming Vice President of Cerro. His leadership, marked by humility and vision, earned him the admiration of colleagues and friends in the industry, who continued to speak highly of him even years after his retirement.
Bob’s career in the copper industry took him across the globe, allowing him to experience different cultures and perspectives. However, despite his travels, his heart always belonged to simpler pleasures. An avid fisherman, Bob could often be found casting a line, savoring the peace and calm of the water. He was also a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, finding joy in watching his favorite baseball team through both their triumphs and challenges. Whether on his fishing boat or at the dinner table surrounded by family, Bob found his greatest happiness in these cherished moments. He was of the Catholic faith, was a member of the Delta tau delta fraternity and the Knights of Columbus Tri-Cities Council and enjoyed his days of playing golf.
After 25 years at Cerro, Bob retired, but his retirement was soon followed by the tragic and sudden loss of his wife, Joanne. Her passing left a profound and indescribable void, yet even in his grief, Bob’s strength and resilience never wavered. He continued to prioritize the well-being of his family, embodying the role of a pillar of strength for all who depended on him.
In 2002, Bob found love once more when he met Gloria, who brought light back into his life. They married that same year, and he quickly became a beloved member of her family, sharing precious moments and creating new memories with her children and grandchildren until Gloria’s passing in 2009, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Bob lived a life that was defined by kindness, wisdom, acceptance, and unconditional love for family and friends. He never spoke ill of anyone. His life was a true testament to the impact of leading with one’s heart, living with integrity, and loving without conditions. Those who had the privilege of knowing him experienced firsthand the power of kindness and the beauty of a life well-lived. He lived a life that is an inspiring example for all.
Bob is survived by his daughters, Mary Jo (John) Kiefer and Laura (Dennis) Worthen; his grandchildren, Sarah Curtis, Shawn (Kimmie) Worthen, Kari Conreaux, and Krystle (Dan) DiCenso; his daughter-in-law, Beverly Conreaux and his great-grandchildren, Ruby, Arlo, Houston, Leo, and Calvin. He is also survived by his sister, Judy (Joe) Cruz, nieces, nephews; other extended family and numerous friends and loved ones who cherished him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wives Joanne and Gloria, his brother Phillip D. (Patricia) Conreaux Sr., and his dear son and best friend, Robert “Skip” Conreaux.
In honor of Bob’s enduring strength, love, and the values he imparted to his family, a visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. where a funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, with Father Stephen Thompson officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, furthering Bob’s legacy of giving. www.irwinchapel.com
