Obituary of Robert Wakeman

Robert L. Wakeman, 75, Beach Park, passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving wife, Patricia on Sunday, May 13, 2007, at home. Our Lord journeyed with him to his heavenly kingdom to meet his mother for Mother's Day. Bob was born July 1, 1931 in Chicago, to the union of Lillian Winifred McKenna and Ray Bell Wakeman. During the past four years he fought a courageous battle against cancer and many other health issues. Bob's first love was to his family. He was a very kind, generous and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He loved music, good movies, and he told many stories and good jokes. He formerly worked for International Harvester for 11 years, and for A&J Truck Parts in Chicago for nine years. Bob owned and operated his own business from 1976 until he retired in 1992 due to failing health. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a member of the American Legion Post 281 and AARP. Bob is survived by his wife of 45 years, Patricia A. (nee Kalata) Wakeman; two daughters, Sue A. (Brian) Marcelain and Christine M. (Philip) Smith, both of Beach Park; two granddaughters, Jessica R. (Robert) Combs of Hatley, WI, and Nicole R. Balay of Beach Park. He was a great grandfather to Andrew Arthur, Andrea Morgan, and McKenna Jean Combs, all of Hatley, WI; and Jayla, Alyssa, and Nicolas Rivera all of Beach Park. Bob was a step grandfather to Todd (Brenda) Marcelain and Heidi (Patrick) Evans. He was step great grandfather to Canyon, Maranda, Mason, and Delilah Marcelain and Brody Evans. Also surviving are his dear sister, Marianne (Al) Ricks of Waukegan, and dear friends, Roy Du Pree, Jerry Kirby, and Ronald La Friske; and a host of many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Lillian Wakeman; two brothers, George and Donald Wakeman; and two sisters, Lois Wakeman and Lillian Haas. A Memorial Mass will be held Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 11 AM at Our Lady of Humility Church, 10655 W. Wadsworth Rd., Beach Park. Friends may greet the family on Thursday from 10 AM until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation, 640 N. LaSalle Dr. Suite 280, Chicago, IL 60610.