Robert G. "Bob" Van Nest

Robert G. “Bob” Van Nest, age 92, of St. Charles, IL passed away peacefully Tuesday, September 10th, 2024 at Delnor Hospital in Geneva with his 5 children by his side. 

He was born September 15th, 1931 in Chicago, IL, the son of Gilbert and Ruth Van Nest.

Bob grew up in Western Springs, IL and graduated from Lyons Township HS.  He then went on to graduate from DePauw University in Greencastle, IN where he met the love of his life, Jeanne.  Early in his career, Bob worked for the Harris Bank in both Chicago and Naperville.  After his banking career, he went into Commercial Real Estate.  Bob and Jeanne raised their children in Lombard, Naperville and Geneva.  Being one of the first families to move into Pepper Valley he was proud to be the President of the H.O.A.  In his retirement, he enjoyed for many years working at both Prairie Landing and Pheasant Run golf courses.  Bob was an athlete in both high school and college and carried on that love of sports by coaching his children’s sport teams, umpiring and refereeing basketball. He loved attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities throughout the years.  He was a member of the Jaycees, an Indian Princess Guide and a PRIDE volunteer with Geneva 304.  He was a long time member and volunteer with the United Methodist Church of Geneva, serving on the board as well.  He was blessed with many friends especially life long friends from Naperville with whom they got together monthly to play bridge.  A highlight for his children was spending spring breaks in Clearwater, FL. where their grandparents lived.   Together Bob and Jeanne’s travels took them to many places throughout the US and in retirement years they enjoyed spending winter months in Florida, Arizona and Alabama.  His joyful spirit will be missed by his family and many friends. 

He is survived by his children David (Joan) of Port Byron, IL, Stephen of McAllen, TX, Sharon Ofeldt of Ponte Vedra/Nocatee FL, Leslie (Mike) Martens of Geneva, and Marcia Smith of St. Charles, grandchildren Erik (Heather) Van Nest, Lindsay (Dan) Griffin, Michael Ofeldt, Kristin Ofeldt, Jeff (Stefanie) Martens, Elizabeth and Brad Martens, Charlie and Jack Smith, Brad Wingert, and Jeff (Iulia) Wingert; great grandchildren Novalee, Travis, Taylor, Madison, Jayden and Olivia. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his devoted wife of 66 years, Jeanne, who passed away in 2021. 

Services for Bob will be held on October 18th, 2024 at the United Methodist Church of Geneva.   A funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m.  followed by a gathering in the fellowship hall of the church from 4:30-6:30 p.m.   Rev. Rob Hamilton officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the United Methodist Church of Geneva, 211 Hamilton St., Geneva, IL 60134 would be appreciated.

For information, 630-232-8233 or visit malonefh.com.

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