Robert William Quest Sr.

Robert “Bob” William Quest passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at the age of 83. Born on August 14, 1941, in Rockford, Illinois, Bob’s remarkable life was one of love, transformation, and living life to the fullest.

Bob was the fifth of six children. His father left when he was just three years old leaving his mother to support the family. Bob respected his mother’s strength and work ethic, qualities that inspired him throughout his life. Growing up in Rockford, Bob developed a love for sports like swimming, basketball, and baseball. He recalls kids saying they couldn’t believe how fast that “chubby” kid could swim. Eager to escape and see the world, Bob left high school in the 10th grade and joined the Navy at 17.

While in the Navy, he formed a lifelong friendship with Ray, his best friend and partner in countless escapades. While in the Navy, Bob met the love of his life, Leslie. They married in 1963, and Bob credited Leslie with “saving his life”.

Leslie’s unwavering belief in him inspired Bob to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degree in finance while working full-time to support the family. Bob and Leslie had a beautiful marriage of 45 years. They loved raising Rob and Darin, cherished many lifelong relationships with friends and family, and had many adventures throughout the world. Bob’s love and dedication shined the brightest when Leslie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He lovingly cared for her at home, ensuring her final years were filled with comfort. After her passing, Bob faced difficult years, but he eventually found companionship and joy with Elisabeth, his second great love, who helped Bob enjoy the last five years of his life to the fullest.

Bob had a highly successful professional career. Starting in the mailroom, he worked his way up to executive roles, eventually leading a leveraged buyout of Advanced Controls. He achieved many milestones that symbolized his triumph over humble beginnings. Among these was joining and purchasing a home in Marbella Country Club, a dream he never thought possible for a kid from Rockford without a high school degree. Being a member of the Marbella Country Club brought Bob great joy and many cherished friendships.

He was a larger-than-life figure known for his high energy, zest for life and love of golfing, dancing, and socializing. He will forever be remembered as "Dancin' Bob," the life of the party who brought positive energy into every room he entered.

He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, and a passion for living life to its fullest. As Clint Eastwood’s quote about “not letting the old man in” reminded him, Bob never let age or hardship get in his way.

Bob is survived by his two sons, Rob (Charles) and Darin (Gloria), as well as his beloved partner Elisabeth, and countless friends and admirers. He was preceded in death by his wife, Leslie, whose memory he carried with him always.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (http://act.alz.org/goto/inmemory).