Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Robert Gelms Obituary
Robert (Bob) Patrick Gelms, 73, returned to our Lord on October 2, 2022. Born June 25, 1949 in Evergreen Park, IL. Bob is survived by children: Virginia (Ginny) Gelms of Minneapolis, Dr. Bridget Gelms (Sean Hanson) of San Francisco, Caryn (David) Eldridge of Evanston, IL; grandchildren: Ruby and Bruce Eldridge, and Dylan, Brandon and Gabriel Duvall; sisters: Peggy Gelms of DeKalb, IL, Nancy (David) Cargill of Tinley Park, IL, Jeanne (Rick) Zimmerman of Hotchkiss, CO, Kathy (Steve) Lettiere of Orland Park, IL, and Julie Gelms of Boynton Beach, FL; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Preceded in death by parents Robert Kenneth and Virginia Margaret (Nally) Gelms, brother William (Bill) Gelms and granddaughter Abby Duvall.
Bob graduated from Northern Illinois University where he studied Irish literature. His radio work included stations in Chicago, WLUP and WXRT, and in Iowa, K-LITE, KIIX, KKRQ and KDTH. He was Music Director, a drive time disc jockey and hosted the "Blues Deluxe" show. He produced the Grammy nominated album "Blues Deluxe". Bob was a skilled woodworker, loved playing guitar in rock bands and church choir, and was an avid reader. Later in life he wrote book reviews for 365ink Magazine. Those blessed to have known him knew he was a gifted storyteller. His laughter and warmth will be missed.
Services will be private for the family. Donations in Bob's memory may be sent to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (www.lbda.org/donate). Condolences may be sent to [email protected]. May he rest in peace.
Sign Guest Book at legacy.suntimes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Gelms
Sponsored by Chicago Sun-Times.
1 Entry
Clare Steffen
February 17, 2023
I just learned of Bob's passing and am hit with a deep sense of sadness. We shared many stories and he frequently made me laugh. We shared a love of Irish culture and he, of course, was extremely well-versed in Irish literature. I so admired Bob, his love of Blues, and his enthusiasm for music and talented musicians. We both grew up on the South-Side of Chicago in the Beverly neighborhood, and so had that in common as well. I will miss you, dear friend, but if I know you, you are already gathering a band of story tellings in heaven. I trust God will always keep you close, and give you a soft place amongst loved ones.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Gelms's name
Memorial Events
for Robert Gelms
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Robert Gelms's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
