Robert Edward Janes, 91 of Evanston, passed away Friday July 24, 2020 at Auberge Orchard Park Assisted Living in Morton Grove of COVID-19 complications.
Born Wednesday July 25, 1928 in Evanston, Bob was the son of the late Leonard Reed Janes and the late Lucie Janes, nee Fogel. Brother to the late Nancy and the late Philip. Beloved husband of Barbara-Jean Janes, nee Payne, for 54 years. Loving father to Trina (Greg Smith) and Greg (Leslie). Grandfather to Jackson, Mackenzie, Zach, the late Henry, Nathaniel, and Theo. Dogfather to Skye and many pets now over the rainbow bridge.
He died peacefully on Cubs opening day and hours before he turned 92. Covid-19 blew out his birthday candle. His family is thankful to have had a chance to say goodbye to him while some wore PPE in his room and others looked in his room window from outside and said goodbye via speakerphone.
Bob lived a long, full life and his family has much for which to be thankful. He was proud to be an Eagle Scout, Korean War veteran and dedicated community volunteer. He played (clarinet) for his alma mater Northwestern in two Rose Bowl games – 1949 and 1996. He worked as a CPA and used his accounting skills to be the volunteer treasurer for countless civic and political organizations. He was a lifelong Evanstonian. He was an elected Lighthouse Park District Commissioner and their treasurer.
He served as an election judge whenever he could, made sure his family always voted, donated blood regularly and always found a way to help. He was an avid sailor and worked to clean up Lake Michigan. He was a long-time member and volunteer at Northminster Presbyterian Church. He taught his family to recycle before it was a thing. He loved reading and studying maps. He road tripped across America and travelled the world with his family. He skied and hiked the mountains of Colorado until well into his mid-80s. He went on an Honor Flight at age 88. He was a faithful Cubs fan who lived long enough to see them win a World Series. He was soft-spoken and loyal to the bone. His family believes that he was just the nicest guy on the planet.
To honor Bob’s memory, please get out and vote, serve as an election judge, donate blood and volunteer in your community.
A private interment be held at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Evanston. Arrangements entrusted to Evanston Funeral & Cremation, Roland F. Weis director. Info 847 866-8843, condolence and guestbook at evanstonfuneral.com
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