Robert Bleifield

MORRIS—Robert D. Bleifield, 93, formerly of Coal City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, at Park Pointe Nursing Home in Morris.
Bob “Manny” Bleifield was born Aug. 5, 1925 to Robert F. & Rhaddah S. Bleifield in Morris. He was educated in the Coal City Schools. He served on the USS LST-973 in the Navy during WWII as a Motor Machinists Mate from Nov. 4, 1943 through Jan. 27, 1945. He obtained his degree from Illinois State University in 1951. Bob worked as a Trainman for Chicago and North Western Railroad shortly after college, and eventually was an Airplane Mechanic for American Airlines for many years.
Bob was an avid reader and collector of many things. One of his pride and joys was being one of a short list of prestigious owners of the 1938 Howard DGA 9 airplane, which he piloted himself, and is still in existence today. Being a HAM operator was one of his many interesting hobbies, and he was fascinating to listen to. His knowledge and memory of some of the finite details was impressive.  
He loved home cooked meals and homemade desserts. He will be missed by many.
Bob is survived by his nephews and nieces Mark (Misuna) Bleifield, Black River, NY, Vince (Coral) Bleifield, Verona, IL, Barbara (Jim) Bleifield-Foster, Lake Stevens, WA, Eric (Justine) Bleifield, DeKalb, IL, Brenda (Rod) Jobe, Florrisant, CO, cousins Linda (Ed) Best, Sugarland, TX, Lynn Anne (Marvin) Minarich, Channahon, Carol Bleifield, of Middleton, WI, and dear trusted friend, Jim (Debbie) Reed, Morris.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Gordon L. Bleifield, one sister as a young child, Elaine E. Bleifield, and a cousin David Bleifield.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
Graveside Services will be held Friday, Aug. 10, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery, E. Cemetery Road, Morris. Pastor Mark Hughey will officiate
Ferrari Funeral Services of Coal City is entrusted with arrangements.
Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.ferrarifuneral.com