McKillip, Robert P.

Robert P. McKillip, 89, of Galesburg, died at 12:50 p.m. Friday, February 21, 2014 at Rosewood Care Center.

Bob was born on August 29, 1924 in Galesburg, the son of Paul W. and Mary (O’Brien) McKillip.  Bob graduated from Corpus Christi High School.  He joined the Navy in 1943 serving in WWII, and was awarded four service ribbons.  He was discharged in 1946.  Bob married M. Jean Reed on June 19, 1948 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Galesburg.  They were married for almost 50 years.  She preceded him in death on June 10, 1998.  Bob is survived by three sons, Michael (Mary) of Lakeland, FL, Paul (Chrissy) of Mattoon, and Daniel (Marilyn) of Lerna; three daughters, Margaret McKillip of Galesburg, Mary (Mason) Austin of Fairhope, AL, and Tricia Hutchison of Galesburg; and two brothers, Joe (Fannie) and Rich (the late Phyllis) both of Galesburg.  He is also survived by four grandchildren, Chad Austin of Fairhope, AL, Chris Austin of Champaign, Michelle (Fiance, Joey Mason) Hutchison of Galesburg, and April McKillip of Lerna; and one great granddaughter, Rylee McKillip of Lerna.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Bill.

Bob worked as a store keeper for 43 years for Illinois Power, retiring in 1988.  He also worked at Big Ten Liquor in Galesburg for 20 years.  He was a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church, a 3rd and 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Ralph M. Noble American Legion Post #285, VFW Post #2257, and IBEW Local #51 for 66 years.

Bob was the most loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend that anyone could possibly have.  His faith in God, his love of family and friends, and his loyalty to country endured to the very end.  His work ethic has been passed down to his children and grandchildren, and his true love will be remembered for all the years to come.  The legacy of Bob and Jean will live on forever through their family.

Funeral Mass for Bob will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, 2014 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Rev. William T. Miller, IC will officiate.  Military rites will be conducted following Mass.  Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Galesburg.  Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Monday, February 24, 2014 at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory.  Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Service will be at 7 p.m. with the Rosary following at 7:15 p.m.  Memorial contributions may be made St. Vincent DePaul Society, 273 S. Prairie St., Galesburg, IL 61401 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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