Robert Keith Burnham

Robert “Bob” Burnham, 74, of Elburn, passed away unexpectedly Monday, September 13, 2021.

Bob was born and raised in Chicago and attended Chicago schools, graduating from Reavis High School in 1965.

Bob began a successful career at Robert Bosch Corporation at the age of 20, in Broadview, IL.  Bob’s career at Bosch spanned 37 years, working in Customer Service, Sales, and Marketing & Service with his pinnacle role as Vice President Marketing and Service, prior to retiring in January 2004.  Bob then consulted part time for Bosch, enjoying working an additional two years.

Bob’s interests included cars, especially Porsches.  He collected several makes of German cars and a John Deer tractor.  He loved all types of car racing.  In addition to selling parts for cars and collecting cars, he also loved to watch them race, Indy cars in particular.  He traveled coast to coast for Indy Car races and internationally to Formula 1 races in Canada and Monaco.  Road America – Wisconsin was his favorite race venue and Turn 5 his favorite place to watch the action.

Another interest was playing golf, especially in the “Whoever Shows Up” league.

Bob leaves behind his beloved wife of 40 years, Rita, one son, David, four granddaughters, Amanda, Taylor, Josie, and Kayla, two brothers-in-law, John and Jim, one sister-in-law, Trisha, one nephew, Ian, two nieces, Nataliya and Kristi and many, many cousins, dear friends and colleagues.

In death, Bob joins his parents, Keith and Mildred, his brother Dennis and his two sons, Craig and Brian.

An open house to Celebrate Bob’s Life will be held at his home on Saturday, September 25, 2021 from Noon to 5:00 pm.  Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 27, 2021 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 504 Diggins, Harvard, IL.  10:00 visitation, 11:00 Service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Bob’s name to Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Trinity Lutheran Church, Harvard, IL, or a charity of one’s choice.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.saundersmcfarlin.net.

Call Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home for more info at 815-943-5400.

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