Robert C. Marker

Robert C. Marker, passed away May 23, 2021. He was born on May 9, 1949 to Edna (Wickham) and Robert V. Marker in Freeport, IL. He was an avid reader, exercise fanatic and a dedicated academic. He graduated from Auburn High School in 1967 and attended the master’s program at the University of Wisconsin, in River Falls. He had an extensive book collection that included books about ancient history, and a variety of narratives of every genre, and many comic books. Robert started his sales career in 1965 at the family business, Stearns Fixture, serving the community of Rockford and the surrounding area. He then went on to work for several other companies in the area once Stearns Fixture closed its doors. At one point in his career, he took a break from sales to be a substitute teacher in Rockford. He was devoted to the Rockford community’s A.A. program mentoring and supporting those in need. Robert was self-disciplined and organized in all that he did. He was dedicated to exercise his entire life, participating in Tae Kwon Do, running local races, and setting his alarm for early morning weight lifting sessions at the Rockford Health & Racquetball Club, Bally Total Fitness, and Planet Fitness. Robert mainly ate lean meats and veggies, but wouldn't hesitate to sit down and enjoy a bowl of salty popcorn, peanut M&M's, and a ginger ale. Robert also loved to spend time with his grandchildren. He would go to the park with them and give them sweet treats if he could get away with it. He will be missed by many.

Robert is survived by his children; Emily (Jeff Sanders) Marker, Robert M. Marker, his mother; Edna Marker, grandchildren; Sophia and Cadence, as well as his siblings Lanette Bucher, Carl (Mary) Marker, and Brett Marker, he is also survived by his nieces and nephews; Aaron (Ashli) Bucher, Jason Marker, Ken (Kate) Marker, Amanda (Clifton Shearer) Bucher, Laura (Nate) Lundgren, Angela (Charlie) Elder, 12 great nieces and nephews, and his best friend, Kim.

He is predeceased by his father; Robert V. Marker, and brother; Jim Marker.

A Visitation is scheduled for Saturday, 6/5 at 11am, ending promptly at 12pm. A time of open sharing is encouraged between the times of 12pm and 12:45pm. During this time the family asks for loved ones to share their memories and words of encouragement with an open microphone.

Visitation and time of open sharing will be at Advantage Funeral Home located at 7000 W. State St. Rockford IL. Burial to follow at Oakland Cemetery & Mausoleum located at 2619 W Pearl City Rd, Freeport, IL 61032. 3:00 PM luncheon to follow at the Alano Club of Rockford located at 1210 11th Street, Rockford, IL 61104.

Some of you have reached out and asked how you can help during this time. Know that your kindness is much appreciated as we navigate this heartbreaking moment. We kindly ask, in lieu of flowers, to donate funds towards the funeral service, as we want to honor Robert. Donations can be addressed to Brett Marker.