Robert Denton Roney, 95, of Monmouth, IL, passed away at 2:40 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at the Roseville Rehab and Health Care Center in Roseville, IL. He was born on January 10, 1925 in rural Hale Township, the son of Willard and Ethel (Ostrom) Roney.
He was a lifelong resident of Warren County. Bob started working on farms in his early years baling hay, feeding hogs and doing chores on a variety of farms. After graduating from Little York High School in 1942 he joined the United States Navy and served from 1943-1946. He fought in the Pacific Theater during WWII and was a Fireman First Class on two ships; the USS Cowell and the USS Guam.
In 1946 a good friend introduced Bob to Marilyn Thompson. They were married November 8, 1947 on her parents’ farm in rural Monmouth and they celebrated 62 years together. Bob farmed the Thompson Family Farm for over 70 years, growing corn, soybeans and other grains as well as raising livestock. His passion was raising cattle. For over 50 years you could find him every September helping to set up the beef show at the Warren County Prime Beef Festival.
Bob epitomized what it meant to be a farmer- living the values and performing all the hard work that comes with the territory. Nevertheless, he always had time to tell a good story or to help others when needed. When he did make time for things other than farming you could find him watching his beloved Chicago Cubs, going fishing on the farm pond, and traveling with friends or simply spending time with them.
He was a long-time member of the Elks Lodge and belonged to Faith United Presbyterian Church.
He leaves his two daughters; Kathleen (Robert) Thompson of Kirkwood, IL and Karen (Gary Craig) Roney of Longmont, CO; one granddaughter, Jennifer (Ashley) Higbee of Jacksonville, FL; one grandson Brandon Higbee of Nashville, TN; two step-grandsons, Robert M. “Robbie” (Megan Robinson) Thompson of Alexis, IL, and Kent (Lucy) Thompson of Monmouth. Five step great-grandchildren and four nephews also survive.
He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, and his sister Mary Louise (Roney) Mitchell.
A private graveside service will be held at Warren County Memorial Park. The family will also plan a celebration of Bob’s life to be announced at a later date. McGuire and Davies Funeral Home and Crematory are in charge of the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith United Presbyterian Church and may be left in the care of the Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.
