Robert "Bob" & Mary Lou Bielefeld

“Love is not about finding someone to live with; it’s about finding someone you can’t imagine living without”

ROBERT “BOB” and MARY LOU BIELEFELD , of Prairie du Rocher, Illinois, passed away together on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at their residence. They left behind a legacy of love and devotion that spanned over six decades.

Bob was born to the late Wilfred C. and Lucille O. (nee Auer) Bielefeld in Modoc, Illinois. He began working alongside his father in the family business, Bielefeld Garage and Auto Dealership, eventually transitioning to a long and successful career at Peabody Coal, from which he retired. Known for his intelligence and inventive spirit, Bob spent countless hours in his garage, where he loved tinkering with electronics and machinery. He was always the go-to person when family or friends had computer troubles or car issues, always ready with a solution. All who knew him truly admired his mechanical aptitude and passion for problem-solving. Bob was a proud patriot and held strong Republican views, which he wasn’t shy about sharing. His political convictions were deeply felt, and if you didn’t share his beliefs, your conversation with him was often short-lived. Despite his strong opinions, Bob’s integrity, hard work, and dedication to his family and friends left an enduring mark on everyone who knew him.

Mary Lou was born to the late Theodore “Ted” and Lucille (nee Longloy) Palmer in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois. She worked at Prairie du Rocher Bank and later devoted herself as a homemaker and taking care of Bob. Mary Lou had a way of leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met, not just through her warmth but also her subtle gestures. Her touch was the softest, and after a conversation with her, you could still catch the lingering scent of her sweet perfume, a fragrance that seemed to embody her gentle nature. At family gatherings, it was her presence and contributions that everyone eagerly anticipated. Her homemade pies, topped with her signature whipped cream, or her famous Lorna Doone desserts, were always the highlight of every event. Her desserts were so popular that they were the first ones to disappear. Mary Lou’s culinary delights became a beloved tradition and a reflection of the love she poured into everything she did.

Bob and Mary Lou were married on October 27, 1959 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois, and they spent their 65 years of marriage as an embodiment of true devotion. They enjoyed camping, golfing, and later, the joy of riding their Harley together. They were inseparable, sharing a bond that was both admired and cherished by all who knew them.

Bob is survived by his two sisters – Marlene Rall and Carol (Roger) Hess, 12 nieces & nephews - Gail Oakley, Graig (Catherine) Evans, Robin (Jim) Hentis, Christy (Mark) Hatfield, Lisa (Judy Shane) Hess, Roger (Joan) Hess, Anita (Jeff) Toth, Pamela (Todd) Ozier, Julie (Nathan) Stern, Jamie (Arnold) Kreke, Jason (Jamie) Hess, and Michelle (Tom) Adler; and many great-nieces & nephews, great-great nieces & nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister – Janet Caruso, and three nephews – Glenn Evans, Gary Evans, and Mark Caruso.

Mary Lou is survived by her sister – Tina (Melvin) Heinemann, her brother-in-law – James Boyle, 6 nieces & nephews – Tanya (Roy) Schoenbeck, Tom (Tami) Oakley, Bart (Suzy) Heinemann, Ted (Mandy) Heinemann, Tait (Sarah Duensing) Heinemann, and Amanda (Bob) Schwab; many great nieces & nephews, great-great nieces & nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister – Reta Boyle.

Memorial Mass:

11:00 am, Saturday, October 26, 2024

St. Joseph Catholic Church, Prairie du Rocher, Illinois

Officiating:

Fr. Sebastian Ukoh

Inurnment:

St. Leo Catholic Cemetery

Modoc, Illinois

Memorials:

Family Choice

Celebration of Life Gathering:

1:00 pm, Saturday, October 26, 2024

Boondock Tavern, Modoc, Illinois