Robert "Bob" Joseph Reed

Born in Springfield, IL on March 6, 1947, to Francis and Margaret Reed. He was the youngest (pronounced baby) of four children. Growing up on the family farm in New Berlin was the backdrop to his early life. He was known around those parts as “Reed Seed”.

He was a proud Pretzel, graduating from New Berlin High School in 1965. After graduating, Bob joined the USAF/Air National Guard from 1966-1972. Beginning a new adventure, Bob married Linda. They have been an example of a loving marriage with nearly 54 wonderful years together. Bob and Linda added a son, Christopher, to their family. Bob was an incredible dad and was always active with all of the sports and activities that Christopher was involved in.

Bob spent the majority of his working life within Sales and Management at Connor Co. which is a wholesale distributor for Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. He made many lifelong friends that were customers or colleagues while he worked there. He enjoyed what he did as it gave him opportunities to connect with people. After retiring, Bob was a patient transport volunteer at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. He was a friendly face that would help people navigate their way around the hospital or just try to put a smile on people’s faces that were going through a difficult time.

Bob was a member of the Lake Press Club and the Knights of Columbus for over 40 years. He was a current parishioner at St. Agnes Catholic Church and previous parishioner at St. Joseph the Worker in Chatham.

He took many trips to go skiing, snowmobiling, golfing, and loved traveling. Bob was an active golfer and slight pickleball player.

Bob enjoyed life up until his final days. He passed away on September 30, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by family and friends.

Bob will be reunited with his mother, Margaret; father, Francis; siblings, Carol Wellington, Fred Reed, and Judy Wellington; and nephew, Frank Reed.

Those loved ones left behind to toast Bob’s life are his wife, Linda Reed; son, Christopher Reed; several nieces, nephews and cousins; as well as many friends who are considered as family.

Thank you to the caring and compassionate team of doctors and nurses in the ICU, as well as all of the staff and spiritual care at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. The care was not just for Bob but extended to his family and friends that were able to be there in his time of need.

If you find yourself rooting for your favorite sports team (Bob liked the St. Louis Cardinals and Fighting Illini) surrounded by friends or strangers that are not yet your friend, or you hear a song by Willie Nelson or George Jones come on, please take a moment to think of Bob Reed while you smile and have your drink of choice. Cheers to a life well lived!

Memorial Gathering and Mass of Christian Burial: The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703, beginning with a prayer service.

Mass will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 404 E Birch St., New Berlin, IL 62670 with Fr. Fredrick Mbiere officiating.

Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Catholic Charities of Springfield, or Angels Doing Angel Things, P.O. Box 424, New Berlin, IL 62670.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer condolences.