Born on November 10, 1935 to Blaine & Annabelle (Hunter) Cotner in Ligoneer, IN, Bob became a scholar of remarkable depth. He dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge, not merely for its own sake, but to better the world around him. His intellect was unparalleled, a shining beacon of curiosity and understanding that illuminated countless minds.
Bob was not only a man of the mind-he was a poet of the heart. Through his eloquent words and profound verses, he captured the beauty and complexity of life, leaving a body of work that will resonate for generations to come. In 1993, Bob founded the Caxtonian Literary Magazine which continues today to be distributed bi-monthly by the Caxton Club of Chicago.
Bob served as Professor of English at many Universities including Montgomery College, Taylor University, Ball State University and at the University of Liberia, West Africa. Bob served as Vice President of Aurora University, an Executive with the Salvation Army and later in his career, as an Executive at Shriners Hospital for Children in Oak Park.
Bob was above all a family man. With a kind heart & a generous spirit, he was the cornerstone of a loving family who adored him: Norma, his devoted wife of 68 years and his children Jon (Holly) Cotner of North Oaks, MN & Erin (Dave) Stuedemann of Marseilles, IL. Grandchildren, Drake (Darlene) Stuedemann, Aspen (Kevin) Ives, Willow (Tyler) Pavliga, Stella (Danny) Adam and Forest Stuedemann.
Between October 2021 and October 2022, Bob officiated the weddings of 3 of his grandchildren. And this year, he welcomed 3 great grandchildren into the world: Emerson, August and Marley Jean.
He was a guiding light, a steady presence, and a source of unending love and support. His wisdom, humor, and unwavering dedication to others will forever remain a part of our hearts.
Though the world feels dimmer without him, Bob’s light shines on in the lives he touched and the countless ways he enriched our existence. As we mourn our loss, we also celebrate his remarkable life-a life filled with Abundance, Purpose, and Beauty.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 22, 2024 at 2 pm at Refuge Coffee & Co. located in The Lumberyard @ 113 W. William St, Seneca, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Starved Rock Country Community Foundation for a scholarship in his name: SRCCF 241 Marquette St, Lasalle, IL 61301.
The online guest book may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.ottawafuneralhome.com
Ottawa Funeral Home & Crematory
1111 LaSalle St, Ottawa Illinois 61350
815-433-0300
www.ottawafuneralhome.com
