Robert Martin

ROCKFORD- Robert E. "Bobby" Martin, Jr., 58, of Rockford, formerly of Sterling, died Monday, October 6, 2014 at Saint Anthony Hospital, Rockford. Bobby was born on February 20, 1956, in Morrison, to Robert E. Martin, Sr. and Shirley (Hansen) Martin. He graduated from Sterling High School in 1975, and then joined the U.S Air Force. Bobby was an Engineer Tech for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and then was Director of Public Works for the City of Loves Park. He became semi-retired in 2010. Bob's Masonic career began in Rock River Lodge No. 612, AF & AM in Sterling in 1982. He was affiliated with E.F.W. Ellis Lodge No. 633 in Rockford IL. Sir Robert was Knighted in Sterling Commandery No. 57, Sterling Illinois in 1985. Bob was elected to the office of Grand Commander for the state of Illinois in 2000. Bob was a recipient of the Knight Commander of the Temple. In 2005, Bob received his honorary 33rd degree in Grand Rapids, MI. He was a member of Medinah Shrine, Chicago and an affiliated member of Tebala Shrine, Rockford. He was appointed Deputy Grand Governor for Illinois, York Rite Sovereign College of North America. He received the Order of the Purple Cross in 2001. Bob actively participated in many other Masonic orders. He was also a member of the American Legion. After marrying the love of his life, Linda, on November 27, 1999, in Loves Park, they enjoyed family and friends, traveling, and sports. Survivors include his loving wife, Linda, of Rockford; his mother, Shirley Martin, of Sterling; and his sister, Pamela (Walter) DeMent, of Dixon. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Martin, Sr. Funeral services will be held Monday, October 13, 2014 at 10 AM at New Life Church in Sterling, with Pastor Phil Gronbach officiating. Visitation will be held Sunday, October 12, 2014 from 2 PM to 4:45 PM, with a Masonic service following at 5 PM at Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling. A memorial has been established. Condolences may be sent to schillingfuneralhome.com.