Dr. Robert C. Eskridge, PhD

He was born in Walnut Ridge, AR, February 11, 1936 the son of Monte and Katie (Purdy) Eskridge. He began his military career with the United States Navy, serving three years and then transferring to the United States Air Force. Robert achieved the rank of Chief Master Sergeant retiring in 1974. He earned Air Force Longevity Service Award with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star, and a Bronze Star.

Following his distinguished military service, CMSgt Eskridge served as the program administrator for McKendree College in Lebanon for three years. He then joined Belleville Area College (now South Western Illinois College) in 1977. He served as the assistant registrar and was named registrar and director of admissions in 1980. Later that year, he became dean of career education. In 1983, he was named academic dean followed by promotion to vice president for instruction in 1984. He was named the college’s first vice chancellor for development and planning in 1985. In 1987, he was named president of Belleville Area College's, Red Bud campus. He received his bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, he holds a master’s degree in Education from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, and a master’s degree in Management from Webster University in St. Louis, MO. He earned a PhD in Education from St. Louis University. All four degrees were earned going to school at night while working full-time.

Above all, his family was most important to him. He was a committed husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. An avid reader, he never quit learning. His personal library included in excess of 3,000 books. He enjoyed sharing those books with his family and friends. Robert was an accomplished violinist and enjoyed playing the harmonica. He was not a “religious” man, but it was important to him, that his family attend church. He would warm the car for them on Sunday cold mornings.

Robert met the love of his life, Barbara Burkle, at a Halloween party at the USO in Salina, KS. They were married in Salina, KS August 6, 1960. They celebrated 60 years this past August.

Surviving are his wife Barbara, his children: Robert “Bob” (wife Amy) Eskridge of Round Rock, TX, Kathleen (husband Doug) Kassing of Springfield, and Thomas (wife Jennifer) Eskridge of Melbourne, FL. There at 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Thomas E. Eskridge.

The family will greet friends and family from 9:30 am until 10:15 am Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL 62711. A private family service will be held with Rev. Mark E. Gifford officiating. Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery where full military honors will be conducted by the United States Air Force and the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the Mascoutah Public Library, 3 West Church St. Mascoutah, IL 62258

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424