Robert E. “Bob” Fechte, 94, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 3:27 p.m. on Monday, March 9, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born July 17, 1931, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of the late Alvin and Dorothy (Rinne) Fechte.
Bob married the love of his life, Dolores A. (Scaturro) Fechte, on February 6, 1954, at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Venice. They shared many wonderful years together until her passing on January 30, 2020.
Bob retired in 1986 from Operating Engineers Local #520 after many 70 years of dedicated service in the construction industry as a heavy equipment operator. He took great pride in his work and the many projects he helped to complete throughout the region. Bob also proudly served his country in the United States Navy Reserves from 1950 until 1958.
A man of strong faith, Bob was a longtime member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Granite City. He was also a faithful 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Tri-Cities Council #1098, where he enjoyed many years of fellowship, service, and activities. He served as an usher at church for many years and valued the friendships he made through his church and the Knights of Columbus.
Bob had a passion for CB radios and spent many enjoyable hours as a CB radio enthusiast. Above all, he cherished his family. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and looked forward to family gatherings for any occasion. Bob had a warm heart and a joyful spirit, always sharing kindness and bringing happiness to those around him.
He is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Robert “Bob” and Lauran Fechte of Stone Mountain, Georgia, and Dan and Sharon Fechte of Troy; three grandchildren and their spouses, Ryan and Mallory Fechte of Ballwin, Missouri, Brett and Katie Fechte of Troy, and Tyler and Laura Fechte of Maryville; four great-grandchildren, Peter, Penny, Emery, and Cameron Fechte; many nieces and nephews; other extended family members; and many friends.
In addition to his beloved wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, William “Bill” Fechte, and a sister, Donna Ponce.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A prayer service will be held at 4:00 p.m., and a Chalice Presentation will be held at 7:00 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 2300 Pontoon Road in Granite City. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
