Robert (Bob) L. Atherton, age 89 years and 316 days, was welcomed to his heavenly home Sunday, May 25, 2025, in Morrison, IL.
Bob was born in Thomson, IL, on July 10, 1935, to Merle and Ihla (Jones) Atherton. He attended Thomson schools. He and his twin brother (co-adventurer/troublemaker, Richard) joined the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. They served our Country together in military theaters that included North Africa, Italy, Libya, and France. He was a proud American Legion member for 68 years. Bob’s children and grandchildren loved watching him perform duties as a member of the Legion’s Honor Guard.
Bob married Margo Pfeiffer on October 26, 1956, in Savanna, IL. They had two children, Kelly Atherton Vegter and Robert Craig Atherton, and then created a home in Morrison. He was employed by General Electric for 37 years. He also earned his nickname of “Tinker” as a part-time Watch and Clock Repair Specialist. Bob’s original shop was in the basement of the former hotel, now known as Urban Eats restaurant. Bob was active at Emmanuel Church, and served as a Sunday School Teacher and past Ruling Elder. Bob offered his beautiful singing talent to the church choir (this was attributed to a bargain he made with the Music Director). He was a Cub Scout leader, PTA Officer, and Little League Manager. Bob was a 32nd Degree Mason member of the Dunlap Lodge #321 and a member of Scottish Rite Lodge-Valley of Moline Consistory. His local volunteer work also included financial counseling for Illinois Extension Service.
Bob was highly honored to serve as Alderman for eight years and Mayor of Morrison for two terms. He also served as Vice President of the Illinois Municipal League, Whiteside County Enterprise Zone, Northern Illinois Mayors Associations, and Rock River Development Commissions.
After retirement from G.E. Bob enjoyed a part-time career as a Truck Driver for Miller Trucking, and, yes, he had a CB radio and cowboy boots. His fishing passion had him casting lines for all kinds, from the Walleye up north, to the 12 foot, 400 lb,. black Marlin in the ocean. Bob’s fondness for animals contributed to his sharing his life with many over the years, but his joy of being a grandfather and great-grandfather was immeasurable.
Among those missing him terribly are his wife, Margo; daughter, Kelly (Mike) Vegter; son, Bobby (Marianne) Atherton; grandsons, Michael Atherton Vegter, Samuel Robert Atherton, Nicholas Jordan Atherton; honorary granddaughter, Hannah Grace Norman; great-grandson, Emerson William Vegter.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, John, Richard, and Larry.
A Visitation time with his family will be from 12:00 p.m to 2:00 p.m., Saturda,y May 31, 2025, at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home.
It will be followed by the Funeral service at 2:00, officiated by Rev. Luke Schouten, Pastor of Emmanuel Church in Morrison, IL.
Burial will follow the Funeral service at Grove Hill Cemetery with Honor Guard Detail from American Legion Post #328.