SULLIVAN — Robert “Bob” William Sronce, 98, passed away September 8, 2026 at Sullivan Healthcare and Senior Living.
He was born on September 20, 1927, near Taylorville, Ill. to Alice Mae and Vernon Sronce. The family moved to Clinton, where he graduated from high school, excelling in baseball, and he also helped on the farm.
He met the love of his life, Kathryn Marlow, at the Ospur elevator and was married on July 2, 1949, sharing nearly 50 years of marriage before her passing in 1999. They raised four children on the James Waller farm, one mile north of Maroa.
In addition to farming, he worked for A.E. Staley Mfg. and became a certified electrician. He also served as a member of the Illinois National Guard for three years. He became an active member of the Maroa United Methodist Church, in 1953. He was a volunteer fireman, member of the Maroa Lions Club, Masonic Lodge, YMCA Indian Guide, and Maroa Youth League.
Family and friends knew Bob as an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, attending or following games on the radio or TV as much as possible. Bob was a loyal father and stranger to none. His positive attitude, joy of life and love for his family will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father; wife, Kathryn, and his second wife, Janet; siblings Raymond, Rosella, Ruth, Marilyn, Shirley and David. He was a beloved father to Ellen (Robert) Cox, Gale (Butch) Fetters, Philip (Peggy) Sronce, Joy (Randy) Pride. He was a cherished grandpa to Emily (Kirk) Visser, Sarah (Kyle) Sanders, Justin (Tonia) Fetters, Jason Fetters, Jared (Amy) Sronce, Amanda (Zachary) Kueser, Aaron (Kaitlyn) Sronce, Katie Donaldson, Clint (Heidi) Fombelle, step-grandkids Cory (Nicole) Pride, Randy Pride III, Tish Pride; and 20 special great-grandchildren, plus five great-great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held at the Maroa United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 1 p.m. with fellowship following the service. Memorials may be sent to the Maroa United Methodist Church.
