Robert (Bob) Bastean
Robert (Bob) Bastean of Quincy passed away January 13, 2024 just three days shy of his 90th birthday at Sunset Home in Quincy. A quiet man, Bob wanted his obituary to indicate he lived, he died, and he lived a life of service. In keeping with his wishes, his sporting accomplishments in baseball, football, bowling, and golf; his skills in carpentry, woodworking, and crocheting; and practical jokes and pranks like hanging a bedsheet out the second story window of his home wishing his wife a happy 50th birthday on her 49th are not detailed.
Bob was born January 16, 1934, in Quincy to Albert, SR and Elizabeth (Musholt) Bastean. He was a 1952 graduate of Quincy Notre Dame High School and served in the Army 1956-1958. He was employed by Moorman Manufacturing for 30 years working as a researcher and manager. He later went on to operate Bob’s Lawn and Log Shop; Customized Closets by Bastean; and Grandpa’s Workshop.
After an intense four-year courtship, he married the love of his life Janet Staggs at St Francis Catholic Church in Quincy, IL on June 16, 1955. They celebrated 62 years of marriage prior to her death in 2018. Together, they raised three daughters. In opening their home to students and visitors through the American Field Service (AFS), they added a fourth ‘daughter,’ Gaby along the way. Bob wanted to be known for living a life of service. This took numerous forms throughout the years from quiet acts of kindness and help to more organized activities. He worked with the Boy Scouts and with the Minutemen (the three Bobs) at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church who as retirees helped out fixing what needed to be fixed around the church and had a good time (and donuts) doing it. He was most proud of the 50 years he delivered Meals on Wheels starting prior it’s formal inception in Quincy.
He is survived by his daughters Lori Bastean (Greg Sutter), Linda (Ralph) Timpe, Julie Yepsen, Gabriela Mena (Johnny Segura); grandchildren Nick Bastean (Miriam Blume), Gavin Yepsen, Amanda (John) Penisten; and great grandchildren Arabel and Martin Bastean. He is further survived by his brother, Bernard (Butch) Bastean and sister Florence Horman along with numerous nieces and nephews. Was preceded in death by his wife, Janet, parents, brothers: Albert and Thomas and sister Mary (Susie) Wasson.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 11:30 a.m.at Blessed Sacrament Parish, 1119 S 7th St. Visitation will be held Thursday one hour prior to the services at Blessed Sacrament between 10:30 and 11:30. There will be a private burial. Memorials are suggested to Meals On Wheels or another charity of the donor’s choice. Service arrangements are in the care of Duker & Haugh Funeral Home. Messages may be shared online at www.dukerandhaugh.com
I worked with Bob at Moormans. He was one of the nicest men I ever knew. I always enjoyed being around his easy way. We had a cleaning lady in our department that moved slow but was always busy and a good worker. Bob in his teasing voice would say ” you big loafer” and she had the greatest laugh when he would say that. Bob will be missed by everyone that knew him.
We are sure Dad was tickled that the lady cleaning had such a hardy laugh. He was a big tease. Thanks for sharing this memory.
Bob and Jan were wonderful neighbors on State Street. We have fond memories of both of them. They were kind folks with good hearts. We were sorry to hear of his passing. Prayers for the family.
We remember you well. Mom and Dad really enjoyed you as neighbors. Thank you for your comments.
Bob will be missed for his great smile and warm heart. I just read this in the newspaper, Linda, I’ll see if I can take off tomorrow for funeral. You’re all in my thoughts and prayers
Bob was such a kind man to my grandsons; Ross and Kyle Thompson-they thought the world of Bob.
We were honored that Kyle was able to serve today. Dad loved your grandsons and respected their work ethics. They were very helpful to him with mowing and raking.
So sorry about hearing off the passing of my Great Uncle. Have many fond memories of the summer trip long ago to visit and meeting many more of extended family. Always smiling and jokes. Will be well missed, and know he’s reunited with Jan and all the others who passed.
Smiling and joking…wonderful ways to remember your great Uncle Bob.