Obituary
Robert “Bob” Gross, 99, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2024, at Burr Oak Manor in Genoa City, Wisconsin.
Born in Chicago on September 15, 1924, Bob was a lifelong resident of Antioch, Illinois. He attended Grass Lake School and graduated from Antioch Community High School.
Bob served heroically in the Army during World War II as a member of the 101st Airborne Division, the “Screaming Eagles.” He parachuted behind enemy lines before D-Day and fought through many battles. During his recovery from a wound, Bob played saxophone with the Glenn Miller band.
After returning home, Bob married Irene “Mike” Ryan in 1948. They raised four children: Kathleen Ericksen, Colleen McConahay, Robert Gross, and Patti Brooke. Bob and Mike enjoyed over 73 years of marriage, raising a family of 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
Bob was an active member of St. Peter Church and School, serving in various roles including Eucharistic minister, basketball coach, and school board member. He also coached Little League teams and youth activities.
Known affectionately as “Pop,” Bob was a beloved presence in his community. He was a skilled problem solver, a gifted storyteller, and a loving grandfather who rarely missed his grandchildren’s events.
A Memorial Visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Home in Antioch on June 22, 2024. A Celebration of Life and Military Honors will follow. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Burr Oak Manor in Bob’s memory.