Robert "Bob" L. McKemie, age 62, of Cantrall, passed away on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at home with his family at his side.
Bob was born on June 9, 1949 in Springfield, the son of the late Dr. Thomas and Marguerite McKemie of Girard. Bob graduated from Illinois College in Jacksonville in 1971 and married Waneta Barnett on January 19, 1980 in Cantrall.
Other than his family, friends and faithful friend-Rocky, Bob's greatest loves were music and nature. Throughout the last two decades of his life, Bob worked as a professional nature photographer and entrepreneur, displaying his artwork at shows across the country. Bob traveled the world, capturing photographic images of nature and wildlife in an effort to help others see the beauty of the natural world. During his travels, he made many lifelong friends. His multiple trips to Antarctica and the penguins that he photographed while there, were among his favorite. His photo credits include a prize in 1998 BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, for which he was honored during a visit to London that same year. Most recently he was the co-owner of BARNONE, a downtown Springfield bar with his son Jason.
Bob is survived by his wife of 32 years, Waneta; two children, Jason and Stephanie, both of Springfield; one brother, Thomas (wife Marine) McKemie and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 PM Saturday, February 18, 2012 at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. with Chaplain John Nelson officiating.
In lieu of flowers, those that wish may direct memorial contributions in his memory to the Animal Protective League 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702 www.apl-shelter.org or the Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach P.O. Box 1665 Springfield, IL 62705 www.mission-outreach.org
Please visit the online "Life Remembered Story" at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
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