Robert Paul Van Drimmelen, 74, of Ophir Township, Illinois passed away on Sunday, December 22, 2024 after a 9-year battle with cancer.  Bob was born March 14, 1950 in Bellevue, Iowa, the son of Louis and Regina (Mueller) Van Drimmelen. He attended Marquette High School in Bellevue and Kirkwood College in Cedar Rapids. He married Rita Wujek on March 19, 1989 in Ottawa, Illinois.  Bob worked as a carpenter for Local 195 and later as a Realtor for Coldwell Banker in Peru, Illinois. His greatest joy was reliving adventures of his youth. He led his children, nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors through the hills and along the rails by the Mississippi river. There was always a story, tale, or muddy trail.

He is survived by his wife, Rita; daughter, Rachel (Edward) Ehrhardt; son, Robert Van Drimmelen; granddaughter, Harper Ehrhardt; grandson Stetson Ehrhardt; sister, Lois Thilmany (Tom O'Dowd); brother, Lee Van Drimmelen; sister-in-law, Joyce McConville; and brother-in-law William Wujek. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Donald Thilmany; niece, Sarah Thilmany; mother and father-in-law Loretta and Robert Wujek.

Our family would like to thank the OSF Hospice staff including Dr. Maguire, Tara, Jaimi, and Jenny and also Pastor William Clark as a Hospice Spiritual Support. And special thanks to Bob's neighbors and best friends Bruce, Susan, Ethan, and George.  Visitation will be from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Friday, January 3rd, 2025, at the Horner-Merritt Funeral Home, 800 Monroe St, Mendota.  Memorial service will be held 1:00 PM Friday at the funeral Home, with Pastor William Clark officiating, following the visitation.  Visit www.horner-merritt.com for online guest book.