ROCHESTER – Robert Lee Burke, 75, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at his home.

He was born April 14, 1951, to Frank and Ruth (Stolleis) Burke; both of whom preceded him in death. He married Barbara Ann Stone on August 3, 1974, in Park Ridge.

Born and raised in Springfield, Bob was the middle of three boys. The brothers remained close and supported each other throughout their lives. Bob was a 1969 graduate of Southeast High School, a Golden Laurel recipient, and an Eagle Scout. He later attended Illinois State University and Quincy Technical College.

Bob spent his career utilizing his technical talents, working for Punzak Air Conditioning for 17 years and Johnson Controls for 5 years, before dedicating 17 years of service to the State of Illinois.

While at Illinois State, he met Barbara. Little did either know, they were embarking on a journey together that would span more than 50 years. Married in 1974, they built a beautiful family, welcoming daughters Jennifer Ann in 1982 and Amber Marie in 1985, and later celebrating as Bob became a "Papa" in 2015.

Bob saw value in everything around him, filling his surroundings with restorations of all kinds. From vintage gas pumps to antique clocks, he could fix anything; if he didn't know how, he would always figure it out. Quick-witted and sharp, he was always ready with a joke to fit any circumstance. If Bob was in the conversation, everyone was laughing.

He took enormous pride in his vehicles, keeping them meticulously detailed and showroom-ready. His beloved street rods included a 1940 Ford pickup truck and a 1930 Ford Model A, affectionately known as "The A-Bone." As a long-time member of the NSRA and Vintage Times car clubs, he traveled across the Midwest to attend car shows, picking up several "Best in Show" prizes along the way.

An avid fisherman, Bob had several prized ponds he favored around the county. He was always willing to bait hooks and untangle lines for his daughters and granddaughters. Summer fish fries and homemade ice cream were traditions the whole family looked forward to each year.

Bob never thought twice about lending a helping hand. He never met a stranger and could talk for hours on any subject. His bright blue eyes, quick smile, and deep laugh are just a few of the many things his family and friends will miss terribly.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughters, Jennifer (Clint) Davis and Amber (Daniel) Johnson; granddaughters, Matilda Rose Davis and Eleanor Ruby Davis; brothers, David (Michelle) Burke and Stephen (Pam) Burke; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of a funeral service at 12 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home, with Pastor Clint Cook officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park. Following the burial at the Roselawn Memorial Park please join the family at Real Life Church, 2701 Hermitage Rd, Springfield, Illinois for a meal and maybe share a story about Bob.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Gary Sinise Foundation or charity of the donor's choice.