CLINTON — Robert Dean Earl, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully on the evening of May 14, 2025, at 11:58 p.m., surrounded by his beloved family. He was 71 years old.
Born on October 6, 1953, Bob lived a life marked by creativity, integrity, and deep devotion. He was a man of remarkable wit and intelligence, known for his uncanny ability to build, fix, or craft just about anything.
A true craftsman and inventive spirit, he poured his heart into every project he took on, never doing anything halfway. Whether it was with his hands, his mind, or his heart, Bob gave everything his all.
Bob’s pride and joy was his family. He married the love of his life, Susan, in July of 1971. Their love story began early and endured with a strength and passion that inspired everyone around them. On September 21, 2014, surrounded by family, they renewed their vows—an emblem of the enduring bond they shared for more than five decades. Together, they raised two devoted sons, Timothy and Bradley, and shared the joy of watching their family grow and flourish.
Bob’s garden was a sanctuary for him—a place where he nurtured life and found peace. But his greatest joy came from spending time with Susan, their grandchildren, and supporting his family in all their endeavors. He was a guiding force, always present and proud.
Bob built more than just his loving family—he built a legacy of service and trust. Through his small business, Quality Glass & Trim, he served the families and businesses of his community with the same dedication and craftsmanship that defined his life.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Susan; his sons, Timothy (Wanda) and Bradley (Karen); his cherished grandchildren Dylan Earl (engaged to Abby Hamilton), Olivia Kane (Jonathon), Owen Earl, and Cameron Earl, his siblings Carolyn Butler (Bloomington, IL) , Beverly Donner (Taylorville, IL), and Suzanne Arndt (Bill) (Mattoon, IL), Larry Hoy (Cresent City, IL) , and Richard Earl(Judy) (Lincoln, IL), and his in-laws, Dave and Mary Bain (Cookeville, TN), Dan and Cheryl McHenry (Colfax, IL), Susie Bain (Saybrook, IL), Mike and Brenda Clark (Clinton, IL). He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Cynthia Earl, his sister, Rosalie Hoy, brother in-laws Dennis Bain, Harold Donner, and Russel Butler, niece Davina Gebauer, great nephews Donald Hoy and Steven Drake, and great niece Lindsay Skinner.
Bob accomplished much in his life, but more than anything, he was deeply loved. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched—with every story told, every lesson passed on, and every moment shared.
He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always. A celebration of Bob’s life will be forthcoming with details to follow. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL assisted the family with cremation rites.
Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com
