Robert Gene Hanauer, 76, of Stonington, passed away at 11:04 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington.

Bob was born February 23, 1947, in Taylorville, the son of Lloyd and Louise (Marsango) Hanauer.  He attended Kincaid schools, and following high school went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Army.  Bob completed basic training and artillery training at Fort Sill, OK, after which he served one tour in Vietnam.  He was proud to be a Vietnam War Veteran.  After his honorable discharge, Bob worked for Firestone/Bridgestone in Decatur for 33 years, retiring upon the plant’s closure.

Bob married Ruth Ellen Vogel on September 18, 1971, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville.  They have enjoyed over 51 years of marriage.  Bob enjoyed fishing and hunting squirrels, rabbits, and especially ducks.  He was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, and fan of the Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts dating back to the days of Johnny Unitas.  Bob was a member of the American Legion Post 905 in Kincaid for over 50 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Ruth Ann Vandemark; and brother, Eddie Hanauer.

Bob is survived by his wife, Ruth Ellen Hanauer of Stonington; daughter, Mary Gail (husband, Juan) Aleman of Russell Springs, KY; son, Robert (wife, Kris) Hanauer II of Taylorville; 4 granddaughters; 2 grandsons; 12 great grandchildren; sister, Patricia Hill of Pawnee; and several nieces and nephews.

A private burial will be held at Old Stonington Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, Ducks Unlimited Taylorville, 930 Jaycee Ave, Taylorville, IL 62568, or the charity of the donor’s choosing.

The family has entrusted Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home in Taylorville with ceremonies.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of Bob, or to offer condolences to his family.