Robert "Bob" Gifford

Robert “Bob” Gifford, 69, of Robinson, IL, died Monday, April 25, 2016 at his home. He was born April 6, 1947 in Robinson, the son of Ralph L. “Pudge” Gifford & Rachel Irene (Ikemire) Gifford. Bob married Bonnie Hare on July 7, 1984, and she survives. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon Frost (Robinson, IL); by his sister-in-law & husband, Carolyn & Ron DuPlessis; by three nephews & nieces-in-law, Robert S. Frost, Dr. Bradley A. & Karen Frost, and Thomas K. & Lori Frost; by one niece & nephew-in-law, Elisa & Johnny Lytis; by two great-nephews and three great-nieces; and by his mother-in-law, Mildred Hein. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph L. “Pudge” & Rachel I. Gifford; and by his brother-in-law, Virgil “Pug” Frost. Bob was a 1965 graduate of Robinson High School and went on to receive his Bachelor of Education degree from Eastern Illinois University in 1969. He was a beloved and respected chemistry/biology teacher, and taught for 34 years at Red Hill High School before retiring in 2002. His retirement years were often spent outside, as he enjoyed golfing and working out in his yard. In the winter, he and Bonnie would vacation down to The Villages in Florida. Bob was a great fan of racing, and enjoyed any and all types. More than anything, though, he enjoyed spending time with his family and his friends. He was a member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, the Robinson Elks Lodge #1188, the Sons of The American Legion Post #69, and was an Oak Glen Golf Course Board Member, and a member of the Crawford County Retired Teachers Association. A time of visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. on 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 28th at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, April 29th at the funeral home with Pastor Amy Wharton officiating the service. Burial will follow in the Robinson New Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Red Hill High School Science Department, with envelopes available at the funeral home.