Visitation for Robert A. (Bob) Chambers, 77, of Buffalo Grove, will be held Saturday, February 18, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the Memorial Service at 3:00 p.m. at the Ahlgrim Family Funeral Home, 201 N. Northwest Highway, Palatine.
Bob passed away on January 31, 2023, surrounded by his beloved bride, and their two children and spouses.
Bob was born on June 27, 1945, to Estle and Evelyn Chambers in Chicago. He was the third of five children, and the couple’s first son. Bob had a typical Chicago upbringing and graduated from Cooley High School. After graduation, Bob attended trade school and became a machinist, spending his entire career working on industrial pipes and sump pumps for Clow Corporation, which later became Yeoman Chicago.
In 1966, Bob met Diane Wunnicke, the woman who would become his wife. She succumbed to his charms, and they were married in June 1968 and would have two children: Jacqueline (Jackie) in 1976 and Robert (Bobby) in 1980. The family spent summer vacations with friends and family in Hayward or Spooner, Wisconsin, where they would while away the days swimming, fishing, grilling and laughing. Bob was proud of his family and often bragged about his children to anyone who would listen.
In 2006, Bob started his second life – one of complete sobriety. He recommitted himself to his family and friends, determined to share his love with them. He attended daily AA meetings and became a sponsor to numerous individuals, sharing with them the hard lessons he had learned. When someone was down and ready to throw in the towel, Bob talked them through it and made sure they made it to a meeting for support.
During this time, he celebrated three Blackhawks Stanley Cup wins, attending the first parade with Bobby and his family. Bob was an avid golfer, spending most of his days on the local golf course. Whether he was honest with his score is up for debate. Bob was always the life of the party, whether it was playing ping pong in the basement during a holiday gathering, singing Neil Diamond with nieces or dancing on tables at weddings. Wherever the crowd was, Bob was certain to be in the middle.
Bob was the beloved husband of Diane; father of Jacqueline (Kristofer) Rachev and Robert (Lisa) Chambers; grandfather of Ashley (Danny Villarreal) Gargula and Steven (Angelica) Gargula; great grandfather/Pop Pops of Penny Villarreal and Bryce Gargula; dear son of the late Estle and Evelyn (nee Wallen) Chambers and fond brother of the late Darlene (Donald) Brown, the late Janice (Donald) Nottke, Wayne (Linda) Chambers and the late Gene (Sue) Chambers. He leaves behind numerous generations of nieces and nephews and countless friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Bob’s AA group. If you’re interested, please speak with Bobby or Jackie for details.
Uncle Bob held a special place in my heart. As a child many Holidays were spent at his home. We would enjoy ping pong in the basement while listening to Neil Diamond or Waylon Jennings. We would just laugh and laugh. He and my father were like brothers with deep respect for each other. Uncle Bob loved my dad, and I loved that he did. There is so much I could say, but perhaps I’ll write that for my Aunt, or share some words later. I am saddened that I didn’t get to say goodbye. I will miss you Uncle!❤️🩹
So sorry to hear about Bobby. This is his cousin Wanda King in Rossville, Ga. Near Chattanooga, Tn.Love and prayers to all the family. I’m sure he will be missed by all of you.
Bob will truly be miss! Every time I saw him he always had something nice to say after he would aggravate me and laft I am very sorry for your loss
Dear Diane and family, We met Bob through his great friend Charlie. Charlie and Bob would golf in Hilton Head and they would share dinner with us. He was a delight to know and always talked fondly of his wonderful family. We are so sorry to hear of his sudden passing. There is a big hole in your family. May God comfort you in your sorrow. Doug and Elsa Felten
I am honored to have been Bobs doctor for many years. Not only did we share a doctor – patient relationship, but a friendship as well. May his memory be a blessing !
Mark Charman