He was born on January 23, 1956, the son of Fred and Eilene (Ramelow) Grobelnik. Bob attended St. James Trade School and graduated from Springfield Southeast High School. Bob served the Springfield Fire Department faithfully for over 29 years, achieving the rank of Captain, and retiring in 2007.
Bob married Lillie Vaughn in the Bahamas on June 20, 1998, and she survives. Also surviving are their children; Shannon Grobelnik, Brandie (Kenneth) Brown, both of Springfield, Corey (Nicole) DiPasquale of Glenarm, IL, Jennifer (Ryan) Scott of Rochester, IL, Angie (Derek) Zentgraf and Daniel Grobelnik, both of Springfield, and Brandon DiPasquale of Waveland, IN. There are thirteen grandchildren: Alexus, Devin, Eric Olivia, Gianna, Ryleigh, Vivian, Logan, Kenleigh, Mckenzie, Kendall, Dylan, and Carleigh. Also surviving is his sister, Penny Bush of Springfield, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Fred Grobelnik and two sisters, Linda Micko and Joan Baker.
Bob was a member of the Firefighters Postal Lake Club. He was a classic car enthusiast and was extremely proud of his 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle. He enjoyed “tinkering” in the shop, working on not only his own cars, but his friends as well. He was well known for his electrical and wiring abilities. He loved to travel, both in the RV and with family. He found great peace and joy at the beach and around a campfire. Most of all, his greatest joy was being with his family and especially attending and supporting his thirteen grandchildren and attending all their events.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd., Springfield, IL where a funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Monday, August 10, 2026, with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. The family will greet friends from 4:00 pm -7:00 pm. The Springfield Fire Department will have a walk through at 5:00 pm. Cremation Rites will be accorded following with inurnment a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105
