Robert Henry Krutmeier
Robert Henry Krutmeier, age 96, of Payson died on Sunday, September 6, 2020 in his home. Bob was born on February 25, 1924 at home in Hull, IL the son of Henry and Ann (Harman) Krutmeier.
Bob attended St. John Elementary School, then graduated from Quincy High School in 1942. He went to California seeking employment, but soon enlisted in the Navy to serve his country. He completed aviation mechanic school in Oklahoma and was then stationed in Pensacola, Florida and later at Norfolk, Virginia from which he was sent on aircraft carriers. While home on leave he met Betty (Bowen). They married in 1945 and enjoyed 73 years of marriage.
Upon his Navy discharge he began his first career with Electric
Wheel/Firestone. After retiring he began his favorite career of farming with his son , Rodney.
Bob was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. He served many years as mayor of Payson.
Next to his wife and family, flying was his passion. He received his pilot’s license in the early 1950’s and took his final flight last week! He could often be seen mowing his lawn and runway. He enjoyed life to the fullest and died peacefully.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Carlene and Sidney Kemmis of Geneseo, IL and daughter-in-law, Sue Maple and her husband Paul of Payson; six grandchildren: Danika and Cary Eades of Normal, IL, Kirstin and Rob Griffith of Libertyville, IL, Tanya and Todd Vincent of Stockton, IL, Sonja and Jeff Causemaker of Libertyville, IL, Julie and John Danker of Bolingbrook, IL and Lisa Krutmeier of Chicago, IL; and 19 great grandchildren.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Betty, son Rodney Lee, sister Virginia and brothers Don and Hank.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Interment will be in in Calvary Cemetery with military honors conducted by the American Legion Post # 37. There will be a private visitation. Memorials may be made to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Young Eagles Youth Aviation or Quad City Honor Flight. Services are in the care of Duker & Haugh Funeral Home. www.dukerandhaugh.com
Larry had seen Bob recently,they talked for some time. Bob said he was still flying. A life well lived and such a nice man. Sympathy to all. Larry & Pat Veile
Remembering the wonderful times with Bob and Betty and our flying together. Will cherish their friendship ! Blue skies forever, Bob, keep flying in heaven with your wings.
Worked with Bob at the wheel. A supper guy and a great friend. Am so sorry for your loss he will be missed. God will watch over him.
Carlene,Nancy and I extend our most profound sympathies. Your Dad was a great friend ,every time I ran into him we always had a great time talking. God bless,JD and Nancy Albsmeyer
Bob was my classmate and friend at St. John’s School. As adults, we shared our love of aviation. I cherish my memories of our friendship. My deepest sympathy.
What an inspiration to us all in living a generous and family forward life. Our thoughts are with you during this time but are comforted to know the family legacy that honors his life.
On behave of my brothers Warren Jr., Craig, and their families I extend our sympathies to the family. Ron Baugher