Robert Boese Obituary: On Friday, March 1, 2024, the community of Mount Pleasant mourns the loss of a beloved son, husband, brother, and friend, Robert E. “Bob” Boese, who passed away at the age of 78 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois.
Bob was born on January 25, 1946, north of Lockridge, the son of Arthur and Viola (Van Sant) Boese. On September 8, 1965, he exchanged vows with the love of his life, Cheryl Kay Hummell, at the Open Bible Church in Mount Pleasant, embarking on a journey of love and companionship that spanned 58 years.
A proud patriot, Bob served his country with honor in the United States Army, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the ideals of duty and service. Upon returning home, he dedicated three decades of his life to the Jefferson County Roads Department, where his hard work and dedication left an indelible mark on the community he served.
In addition to his work with the Roads Department, Bob and Cheryl were the proud owners and operators of Boese Mowing Service, a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to their community. Together, they meticulously cared for numerous cemeteries throughout Jefferson and Henry counties, ensuring that these sacred spaces remained beautifully maintained and respected.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Bob found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether it was savoring a cup of coffee with friends or tinkering with antique tractors and mower tractors, Bob’s passion for life was evident in everything he did. His dedication to perfecting his craft and his genuine love for the land were truly admirable traits.
Bob’s warm smile and kind heart touched the lives of all who knew him. His presence was a source of comfort and strength, and his friendship was cherished by many. He was a loyal member of the Open Bible Church, where his faith provided him with guidance and solace throughout his life’s journey.
Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Cheryl, his sisters Donna Bishop, Linda (Alan) Coop, and Kathy (Kenneth) McCarty, his sister-in-law Norma Boese, numerous nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog Nia. Additionally, Bob leaves behind two cherished family friends, Tina Andrew and Cory Shy, who brought joy and companionship into his life.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his children Robbie A. Boese and Lori Lynn Boese Williams, his brothers James Boese and William Boese, his sister Susan Boese, brother-in-law Una Bishop, and mother-in-law Beatrice Hummell.
Funeral services to honor and celebrate Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, March 23, at 10:30 a.m. at the Open Bible Church in Mount Pleasant, officiated by Pastor Michael Johnson. Following the service, Bob will be laid to rest in the Salina Cemetery.
Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects and share fond memories of Bob at Murphy Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant on Friday, March 22, starting at 2 p.m., with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. that evening.
As we bid farewell to a remarkable man whose legacy of service, friendship, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, let us take comfort in the memories we shared and the love that will endure for eternity. Robert E. “Bob” Boese may be gone, but his spirit will forever illuminate the lives of those he touched.