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Robert Frank Kay

Robert Frank Kay obituary, Northfield, IL

Robert Kay Obituary

Robert Frank Kay (Bob), age 86, passed away on Friday, October 22, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Northfield after a difficult battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Jean Mary Kay, and his children, Julie, Pam (Curt), and Tim (Debbie) as well as eight grandchildren.

Bob was born in 1935, in Evanston, IL. Early in life, he contracted bulbar polio and spent a year battling the disease, defining the rest of his life as a strong and determined person. He attended New Trier High School followed by Duke University. After graduating in 1958, Lieutenant Kay, immediately shipped out to Navy serving in his beloved submarine core. He left the Navy in 1962 to succeed his father as a 3rd generation president of Woodwork Corporation of America. Bob was introduced to Jean during the summer of 1963 and it was love at first sight. They were married four months later. Over the next 57 years, Bob and Jean raised a beautiful family and enjoyed many happy adventures together. Bob was a devoted father and grandfather, whether it was cheering on at sporting events or teaching his family to enjoy life's lovely things. He will be remembered as a humble, hardworking, and honest man with a great sense of humor.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Oct. 31, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries

Tom Kasnicka

November 3, 2021

Dear Jean,
I was sorry to hear about Bob. I worked for him at Woodwork Corp for many years and he was a great boss. It was also nice getting to know you when I worked at your family home. Please accept my sympathy.
Tom Kasnicka

Jim Sandman

November 2, 2021

Dear family and friends of Bob´s,
On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans, we offer our sincere condolences at Bob´s passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are always saddened whenever a fellow "Bubblehead" leaves on Eternal Patrol. He served with honor on the USS Tusk SS-426. To our "Brother-of-the-Phin" we say, "Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. Fair Winds and Following Seas." Thank you for your service to our country.
... "may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you." 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (ESV).
Jim Sandman, National Chaplain USSVI.

Suzanne(Dohse) Goldman

November 1, 2021

Dear Jean......I send thought and prayer to the entire Kay family. My son, Jeff Robison sent me the sad news of Bob´s passing.
I moved to Maryland to be near one of our 6 kids´ families five years ago, following Jerry´s death in our Savannah retirement home. My folks were such close friends of the Kays, and I was also a good friend of Pat´s. Through the years I lost track of you and Bob. Marilyn Russell kindly sent the obituary notice of your dear Bob! I had no address for you, and I hope you will accept this email of my concern and caring. I wish you faith with your healing over the loss of a wonderful friend and husband of so many years! You are fortunate with your family.
Fondly,
Suzy Goldman
410-314-9392
Cell. 912-308-1039

Laura Christian

October 31, 2021

Dear Kay family,
I am sorry to hear of the passing of Bob ("Mr Kay"). What great memories I have of that Bristol St house and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Laura Christian

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