Charles Robert Dartt

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bob Dartt, a cherished husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and friend, who left this world peacefully on July 5, 2026, at Cedarhurst Des Peres after a long battle with dementia. Born on August 2, 1946, in East Saint Louis, Illinois, Bob's life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and dedication to family and community.

Bob was the beloved son of the late Charles 'Bud' Franklin and Mary (nee Stuart) Dartt. He is predeceased by his parents, his two sisters, Lucy Ellen Kennedy and Mary Ruth Tobin, and his son, Paul Dartt, whom he dearly missed.

Bob's journey began when he graduated from East St. Louis Senior High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree from McKendree College in Lebanon, Illinois. Though he was unable to serve in the military during the Vietnam era, Bob's love for his country was unwavering. He proudly displayed the American flag and supported numerous veterans' organizations throughout his life.

His career as an educator began at Hughes Quinn Junior High in East St. Louis and continued at Collinsville High School, where he was beloved by students and colleagues alike. Bob's passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom, as he worked crowd control at sporting events, sponsored classes, and provided tutoring to homebound students. His dedication to his community was evident in all he did, from his work with Kerry Ingredients, where he led the local Grainmillers Union in contract negotiations, to his final retirement in 2013 after a varied and fulfilling career that included stints at Park Express and Landshire Sandwich Company.

Bob's initial path as a Methodist minister saw him student pastoring three small churches in Illinois, but his journey of faith led him to become an active member of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville. He participated in fraternity life at McKendree and honed his skills in public speaking with Toastmasters. Bob's contributions to fundraisers, notably making funnel cakes for school craft fairs, were a testament to his generous spirit.

His hobbies reflected his diverse interests and talents. Bob's woodworking skills were evident in the beautiful cradle he crafted for a close friend's baby, and his ability to fix anything made him the go-to handyman for family and friends. However, it was in the kitchen where Bob truly shone, delighting all with his baking prowess. His ganache torte, inspired by a trip to Alaska and Victoria, became a family favorite, and his desserts were often shared with his wife's colleagues to universal acclaim.

Bob's personal qualities made him a joy to be around. With a quick wit and a generous heart, he brightened the lives of all who knew him. A devoted husband to Karen (nee Decker), they shared a beautiful marriage beginning on April 30, 1994, during which he became a loving stepfather to Andrew (Jenna) Foley and Diane (Jamie) Wienstroer. Bob adored his granddaughters, Teagan and Sloane Foley, and his legacy will continue through them and his many nieces and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated caregivers from RN Services, Cedarhurst Des Peres, and Dover Hospice, whose support was invaluable during Bob's journey.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Bob's honor.

"He is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much..." Bob embodied this sentiment fully, leaving a legacy of love and laughter that will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A visitation for Bob will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from 10am - 12pm at Lake View Funeral Home, 5000 N Illinois Street, Fairview Heights, Illinois 62208. The memorial service will immediately follow the visitation.