|
Robert L. Tatroe, age 98, late of New Lenox, IL, died peacefully at Liberty Court Memory Care in Dixon, IL, September 23, 2025. Bob graduated from Lockport Township High School. Upon graduation, he immediately enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served in the Asiatic Pacific Area aboard the USS Holland, from 1944 to1946. Upon his return from the Navy, he met, and eventually married, Lillian Szakonyi in 1950. They were happily married for more than 65 years.
Bob retired in 1986 after 34 years at the EJ&E Railroad. He was also a bus driver for many years. He was an active member of St. Stephens Catholic Church, Joliet and St. Jude Catholic Church, New Lenox. He was involved in Caritas and many other charitable organizations within both churches. He was so highly thought of for his work ethic and charity that St. Jude approached him about becoming a Deacon. He humbly turned it down because he didn’t feel he was worthy of the position. However, the qualities to become a Deacon are: 1: They must be men of character; 2: They must be men of faith; 3: They must be men who love the work; and 4: They must be men who lead their families well. This described Bob perfectly. He was a very proud member of the Knights of Columbus in both Joliet and New Lenox, IL during his lifetime. In New Lenox, he co-founded the Father Dick Allen Council #10926 at St. Jude Catholic Church, where he was later honored as an SK 4th Degree member and served as treasurer. He loved spending his time helping others, and participated in all the activities sponsored by the Knights. He was a very charitable and giving man! He loved spending time with his family and was always eager to lend a helping hand in time of need. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. They really made him laugh and smile. He is survived by his three children, Stephen (Renee) Tatroe, Brian (Terri) Tatroe, and Marian (Ron) Youngren; 12 grandchildren: Karyn (Walt) Tejan, Sonia (Jeff) Eberspacher, Stefan Tatroe, Kalyssa (Dave) Soucy, Chrisanna (Justin) Olson, Dustin Tatroe, Candyce (Tom) Jordan, Blake (Sarah) Tatroe, Ryan (Nicla) Renner, Brett (Emily) Renner, Colton (Tionna) Youngren, and Ian (Courtney) Youngren; 22 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lillian in 2016, his parents, George and Elsie (Lembke) Tatroe, two brothers, George and Herbert Tatroe, and one sister, Evelyn Ahlvin. |