Foerster, Robert Eugene 'Bob'

Other Events and Attributes:

• Reference Number: FOER.R001
• Military Service: Viet Nam War, United States Army
• Funeral: 11 Jan 2014, Free Methodist Church, Olney, Richland County, Illinois

Notes:

Bob was loved by everyone who knew him. He lived his life as a service to God through his selfless service to his community and his constant witness to all with whom he came in contact. Bob's heart went out to the youth of this community, and because of this, he is known to many as "Uncle Bob."

His adult life was made up of different phases of service, beginning with his service to his country during the Vietnam War, where he served as a United States Army Ranger from 1966-1969. Afterward, he used his G.I. Bill to begin studying to be a nurse at Olney Central College. However, God had other plans for his life.

Thus began his next phase of service as dispatcher (telecommunicator) for Olney Radio while he studied Criminal Justice at OCC and McKendree University. Upon completing his studies, he became a Police Officer, serving first at the Newton Police Department then coming to the Olney Police Department, where he served for 20 years from 1977-1997, retiring as Sergeant. The following year he began his first of two terms as Sheriff for Richland County, holding this office until 2006.
Through all of this, and until the day he died, he served on many boards, including the Police and Fire boards, Salvation Army, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and American Legion. He also did volunteer work for many charitable organizations such as The Master's Hands.

Bob loved to change lives and believed in the good in everyone. He did everything he could to show his support to active duty and veterans of our military. He faithfully corresponded with any and all inmates who sought his encouragement and guidance.

Bob Foerster was a loved and respected member of this community and his passing will continue to be felt by all who knew him.

Military Service:
Vietnam War, where he served as a United States Army Ranger from 1966-1969

Buried:
Burial will be in Crest Haven Memorial Park with full military rites at the graveside.

Robert married Archer, S.S. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: ?, D.. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]