Robert (Bob) James Cantlon born May 28, 1937, son of Frank and Virginia (Canavit) Cantlon passed away peacefully on August 12,2024 in Branson West, MO at the age of 87.
Bob wed Betty L. Lipe on August 16, 1957. They resided in several towns in Illinois through their 49 years of marriage.  Both were the eldest of large families, together they helped nurture and provide loving assistance to their sibling's while raising four daughters. Their busy home was always warm and welcoming to family and friends.

They retired to the Branson area in 2004, after many years of enjoyable cabin stay vacations at Table Rock Lake. They were active members of the Cedar Ridge Babtist Church in Galena, MO where Bob served as a Deacon.
Bob began his work life at Union Starch, a corn refinery in Granite City, IL. progressing his way through various departments and responsibilities. Years later he accepted a transfer to ADM in Decatur IL as Maintenance Superintendent/Project Manager until his retirement in 1995. He also formed a construction company where he and Betty built new homes and completed many renovation projects together. Bob enjoyed bowling, woodworking and assisting Betty with her many creative endeavors.Bob is preceded in death by his wife Betty, son Robert James Jr., parents Frank and Virginia Cantlon, brothers Harold L.Cantlon, Frank L. Cantlon and many dear friends and family members.

He is survived by siblings: Allen (Gale) Cantlon, James (Kathy) Cantlon, Darlene (Don) Purcell, Iva Van Meter, and Carol (Dave) Huniak, daughters: Karen (Brian) Slezak of Douglasville, GA, Sharon (Scott)Grafelman of Galena, MO, Diana Cantlon (Sam McMullen) of Decatur, IL, and Regina (Roger) Bradford of Galena, grandchildren: Amanda, Joshua, Jason, Sarah, Marcus, and Stephen, great grandchildren: Amiyah, Rylinn, Samaiyah, Elizabeth, Eli, Oliver, Logan and Ava Rae.
He leaves a hole in our lives that we hope to fill with cherished memories of a life well lived. We will miss him but know him to be at peace with the world and God.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for November 17, 2024, from 4:00-6:00 p.m., at the Chouteau Township Hall, 906 Thorngate Road, Granite City, IL 62040.  Graveside services November 18, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., at the St.John's Cemetery, 2901 Nameoki Road, Granite City, IL 62040.  Cremation is under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home, Kimberling City, MO.