Robert F. Zima, 82, of Huntley, died peacefully on January 10, 2017, with his wife Barbara at his side.
Robert was born June 29, 1934 in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Frank and Florence Zima.
He was raised in Wicker Park, and lived in Lombard with his first wife Ethel Mae (nee Johnson), raising four children together. Bob played drums in several bands that performed at weddings and other functions throughout the Chicago area, and he owned and operated Community Insurance Services in Wheaton until his retirement. He cared for Ethel through a long illness prior to her passing.
On the day after Christmas, 2000, Bob met Barbara Stetz Barczak, and they married in 2001. They enjoyed their years together, hosting many family celebrations. A trip to Prague and Warsaw, where their families originated, was one of the highlights of their adventures. They also toured the U.S. in their motor home, reuniting with his younger brother and seeing the National Parks. Bob loved watching the wildlife that visited their Sun City patio, and took pride in enhancing their landscaping. His favorite jazz radio station was always playing, his year-round holiday tree was always decorated and lit up, and his prized African Violets flourished under his care, making their home a favorite destination for all. The mantra he lived by is "One Day at a Time". His family and many dear friends will miss his calm presence, wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his sons, David (Cecilia) Zima, Mark (Cassandra) Zima; his stepchildren Karen (John) Culp, Sharon (John) Satter, Edward Barczak, Jr. and Mary Aguilar; his loving grandchildren Chris (Ashley) Freer, Jason (Becky) Freer, Michael Freer and Jeffrey (fiancee April) Freer, Gabriela Zima, Thomas Zima, Mackenzie Rogers, Jennifer Williamee, and Stephen (Jaimie) Newby; and three cherished great-grandchildren, Alyssa and Madison Freer, and Nicholas Freer. He was preceded in death by his first wife Ethel, his son Thomas Zima, daughter Linda Freer, and brother John of Las Vegas.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Tuesday at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road in Huntley. Visitation at the church from 9:00 AM until Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.
Condolences may be directed to DeFiore Jorgensen, who are handling the arrangements for the family. 847-515-8772 or online www.defiorejorgensen.com.
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