Robert Kemp
Robert Earl Kemp, age 91, of Poplar Grove, IL, went home to be with his Savior on May 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Bob Kemp was born on July 17, 1933, in Streator, IL, to Horace and Iva (Gustafson) Kemp. Bob graduated from Wenona High School in 1951 and Beloit College in 1955, where he met Judy McAfee, his future wife.
Bob and Judy married on August 20, 1955. Following a two-year Army commitment in the San Francisco area, Bob & Judy settled in Illinois. They raised five children and were blessed with 17 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Bob got special joy from spending time with grandchildren, mentoring local youth, and creating competitive activities for all ages.
Throughout the years, Bob held various volunteer leadership positions in the community. He was passionate about everything he undertook - including teaching, coaching, farming, volunteering, working with draft horses - and especially connecting with and inspiring those around him, leaving a lasting impact on many.
Also, Bob and Judy especially enjoyed sharing their Wisconsin home with family and numerous friends.
Bob is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Randy (Teresa) Kemp of Hayden Lake, ID, Cyndi (Russ) Zick of Rochelle, IL, Kathy (Dan) Kilen of Eldridge, IA, Brad (Terri) Kemp of Roscoe, IL, Mary (Tracy) Dahms of Conover, WI; brother, Dick Kemp of Phoenix, AZ, and sister-in-law, Janet Kemp of Rutland, IL.
Bob was predeceased by his parents, Horace and Iva Kemp, brothers Don and Jerry, and his sister Joan, and in-laws Marilyn Kemp, Nancy Kemp, John Timmerman, Charles (Bud) and Marcia Heckler.
A memorial service will be at 11am on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Poplar Grove United Methodist Church in Poplar Grove, IL. A luncheon will be held after the service. There will be no visitation or graveside service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Poplar Grove United Methodist Church; Poplar Grove Lions Club.
Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com PAID OBITUARY
