Robert Lee Underwood

Robert L. Underwood, age 86, of Ottawa, passed away Friday, March 19, 2021 at his home.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home with Reverend Bill Clark officiating.  Interment will follow in Oakwood Memorial Park with Military Honors by the American Legion Post 33 Honor Guard.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. Wednesday morning at the funeral home.  Pallbearers will be Steve, Gary, and Dan Underwood, Eric Anderson, Mason Ruppert, and Lane Elleby.

Robert was born March 18, 1935 in Cave-In-Rock, Illinois, one of seven children, to John William and Leoma (Wood) Underwood. He married Helen Held on May 29, 1959 in Elgin, Illinois.  Helen was his wife of 60 years prior to her death February 10, 2020.  Robert is survived by their three children, Steve (Tammy) Underwood of Newark, Gary Underwood of Marseilles, and Debra Lambert of Ottawa. He also leaves grandchildren, Traci (Eric) Anderson, Dan (Allie) Underwood, Amy (Lane Elleby) Underwood, Amanda (Quintin) Knudsen, and Chloe (Mason Ruppert) Underwood; great grandchildren, Roman Underwood, Wesley Anderson, and Ruby Ruppert; and a brother, Ray Underwood of Eldorado.  Robert was preceded in death by four brothers, James, Glen, Neal, and Carl Underwood; and a sister, Eva Underwood.

Robert proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.  Robert was a machinist and inspector for Caterpillar Tractor Company, retiring after thirty years of employment.  He enjoyed reading and gardening, and never missed an opportunity to watch his beloved St. Louis Cardinals play baseball.  His family meant the world to him and he especially enjoyed visits from his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Memorials can be made to the Utica Public Library.

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