Robert Arthur Mayer

Robert “Bob” Arthur Mayer, 74, of Waddell, Arizona, passed away on February 10, 2025. He was born on October 29, 1950, in Elgin, Illinois, to Emeric and Gwendolyn Mayer. Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who lived a life full of love, service, and joy.

Raised in Bartlett, Illinois, Bob spent his formative years surrounded by his two sisters, Janet and Susan. He cherished summers spent in Hayward, Wisconsin, a small town where he created lifelong memories. Bob's early love for radio led him to a brief stint as a DJ for the local station, which sparked his passion for communication.

In his professional life, Bob dedicated many years of service to the community. After working as a Communications Dispatcher for the Illinois State Police , he became an officer with the Elgin Police Department, where he served for over 20 years. His career reflected his strong commitment to justice, patience, and care for those around him.

In 1987, Bob met Diane, a fellow police officer at the time. The two were married Hayward, Wisconsin in 1988. They went on to create a loving, supportive family, with their daughter, Elizabeth, and their son, Joseph. Bob and Diane’s life together was built on shared values of love, humor, and dedication to family. They later relocated to Arizona to be closer to their children. Tragically, Diane passed peacefully in 2017. Bob will now be reunited with her in eternal rest.

Bob was a man who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He was a lifelong pet lover, always having cats and dogs by his side. His love of nature found him grilling outdoors, swimming, and embracing the warmth of summer. He found joy in listening to 70s folk rock, with artists like Jim Croce, Paul Simon, and The Eagles topping his playlists. He was fan of Tom Clancy novels, classic TV shows like Adam-12 and M*A*S*H*, and WWII films.

Bob was famous for his delicious cooking and his love for sweets.Bob was also an avid traveler, with his most cherished trip being to Vienna, Austria as well as Disney Cruises.

Throughout his life, Bob was admired for his patience, kindness, and wicked sense of humor. He was an approachable and giving person who always had a joke ready to lift someone’s spirits. His dedication to his family was unwavering, and his proudest accomplishment was raising two wonderful children who continue to carry his legacy of love and integrity.

Bob was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus at Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church and a proud participant in the AZGMRS. He was passionate about HAM radio, photography, video, and his favorite holiday—Halloween, which he celebrated with elaborate decorations for his yard and home.

He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Hughes (nee Mayer), his son Joseph Mayer, his stepdaughter, Michelle McCormick, his sisters, Janet Hopkins-Fuehrer and Susan Mayer, and his beloved granddaughter, Annalise Glosemeyer. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Diane Mary Mayer.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at 5:00 PM on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear, Arizona. A funeral service will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Fredrick’s Funeral Home in Hampshire, Illinois, followed by burial at the Hampshire Center Cemetery.

Bob will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his unwavering support for his family and friends, and his incredible sense of humor that brightened the lives of all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and love.