Robert J. Henry, born 7/31/31 in Evanston Hospital, Bobby Jim was the only child to Otis and Pearl. He was raised in Glen Ellyn, IL, and proudly attended Glenbard HS and Ripon College with ROTC service, then 2 years of active duty, non-combat as a 1st lieutenant in the Army artillery.
Following his service, he enthusiastically sold 1956 Chevrolets, cultivating and embracing his lifelong interest in cars and collecting car books. His career entailed many positions within the insurance industry and real estate, highlighted by his tenure at State Farm as a claims adjuster in the then-new frontier of Ft. Lauderdale starting in 1971, until relocating back to the Chicagoland community of Bolingbrook in 1978.
Bob proudly served as Ripon College Class Agent (’53) until well after their 50th reunion. He was always so proud to be a Ripon alum! He also treasured his lifelong friendships with so many buddies and classmates, always keeping in touch with many over the years.
In retirement, Bob enjoyed being the humorous and entertaining Tram Driver of the Acorn Express at the Morton Arboretum. He also played serious senior ping pong both in Bolingbrook and Kenosha (as a board member of the Kenosha Senior Center), ultimately living in both Pleasant Prairie and Kenosha residences, including most recently at Kenosha Place Senior Living since 2023.
In 1965, he married Carolyn Betz and shared their lives together for over 60 years until the day of his passing. He is survived by his wife Carolyn, son Stephen (Denise), daughter Cathy Dauner (Wade), and grandchildren Kelli, Jessica, and Kyle. They have also been blessed with 4 great-grandsons to carry on the family name.
The family would like to thank the staff at Kenosha Place, Aurora Hospital, Hospice Alliance, and Vitas Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Bob in his final years.
A private family celebration of life is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, a remembrance of support can be sent to Vitas Hospice in his name. VITAS Community Connection, PO Box 645352, Cincinnati, OH 45264-5352.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street Kenosha WI 53142
262-653-0667
