Robert J. Gathard, 98, of Springfield, IL, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Robert was born on August 12, 1927, in Springfield, to Delvan F. and Anna H. Jarnevich Gathard. He married the love of his life, Frances Eileen Brand on February 16, 1957 and shared 68 wonderful years together before she passed away on July 10, 2025.
He is survived by his two sons, John (Mary Nguyen) Gathard of St. Louis, MO and David Gathard of Divernon, IL; grandchildren, Nicole Gathard of St. Louis, Robert D. (Lexie) Gathard of Springfield, Abigail Gathard of Diveron, and Adam (Caitlynn Whitaker) Gathard of Diveron; one great-grandchild, Evelyn; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews, and great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews and cousins; and beloved cat, Dory.
He was preceded in death by his parents; spouse, Frances; and siblings, Fritz Kail, Thelma Miles, and Elsie Zerafa.
Robert was raised in Detroit, MI and attended Jefferson Intermediate School, then his family moved back to Central Illinois and he attended Riverton High School. He then was drafted to the Army where he served in the Army Corps of Engineers in Japan in World War II and then Korea. Following his service to the country, he went on to become a machine specialist at Fiat-Allis for 33 years before retirement. He wasn’t one to just sit around and became a certified Master Gardener, which then led him to a part-time role at St. Joseph’s Home as grounds keeper for many years.
Robert was a faithful member of Christ the King Church, along with his wife Frances.
He also loved sports and was part of many baseball and softball teams through the years; was a member of the Riverton Athletic Club; and enjoyed coaching basketball back in the day.
Cremation will be arranged by Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.
Graveside Service: 9:00 am, Monday, January 19, 2026 at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors being conducted.
Memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities.
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