Robert "Bob" J Korte

Bob was a kind-hearted, hardworking, and entrepreneurial man whose strong faith and generosity guided every aspect of his life. He deeply loved his family, cherished his country, and held an unwavering admiration for his wife, Sharon.

Bob was born on September 5, 1935, in Galena, Illinois, to Raymond and Rose (Mougin) Korte. He graduated from Warren High School in 1953 and proudly served in the U.S. Army from June 1958 to June 1960, spending 13 months in Korea as part of the DMZ patrol.

On September 1, 1962, Bob married the love of his life, Sharon L. Seflow, in Warrens, Wisconsin. Together, they built a beautiful life and, in 1981, founded Automatic Fire Systems, Inc., a family business that continues to thrive today.

Bob was a man of many passions. He enjoyed traveling, square dancing, woodworking, and cheering for the Chicago Bears. He loved coaching football and baseball with his kids and found joy in time spent with family. His home reflected his deep patriotism, adorned with American flags and symbols of freedom, especially his beloved eagles.

Bob is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sharon; his children Kim (Jeff) Hatch, Kurt (Penni) Korte, and Kelli (Curt) Brown; six grandchildren Nick (Steph) Hatch, Cory (Casey) Hatch, Cole Korte, Carley (fiancé Zach Bosak) Korte, Kaitlyn Brown, and Tyler Brown; and four great-grandchildren Henry and Harvey Hatch, and Liam and Lily Hatch. He is also survived by his sisters Rita (Darrel) Orr, Cheryl (Richard) Holland; brothers Donald Korte, Roland Korte; brother and sister-in-laws: Linda Korte, Colleen Korte, Ken and Vonnie Schlaver, Vera Seflow; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Rose Korte; his in-laws Clarence and Adela Seflow; sisters Donna (Mervin) Hintz, Deloris (Eldon) Ertmer, Shelby Jean (James) Young, Lenora (Don) Jackson; brothers Richard Korte, Harold “Chris” (Carol) Korte, William Korte; and brother and sister-in-laws Dianne Korte and Duane Seflow.

Bob’s legacy is one of faith, family, and freedom. He will be remembered for his generosity, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his unwavering love for those around him. Memorial contributions may be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church, Alzheimer’s Association, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Special thanks to all the nurses and caregivers that have been with Bob through this whole journey.

Special thanks to Bob’s friends and family for their loving care and support.

A visitation for Bob will be held on Saturday, January 3 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 827 16th St, Rockford, IL 61104 with a service to follow at 1:00 pm. Entombment to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 8800 N Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL, 61115.