Robert “Bob” M. Diehl, 68, of Galesburg, died at 12:03 a.m. Thursday, October 8, 2026, at home with his family.
He was born June 22, 1958, in Galesburg, the son of Merrill E. and Betty Lou (Hancock) Diehl. He married Melody Ann Church on May 2, 1981, at Prairieland Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife of over 45 years, Melody; his children, Tiffany M. (Chad) Springer of Galesburg, Daniel Robert (Corey) Diehl of Fishers, Indiana, and Stephanie R. (Bo) Merritt of Pensacola, Florida; and seven grandchildren, Madison Springer, Abigail Springer, Olivia Springer, Audrey Diehl, Isaac Merritt, Jeremiah Merritt, and Naomi Merritt. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Anthony “Tony” Diehl on May 14, 1995.
Bob was raised and educated in Galesburg, graduating from Galesburg High School in 1976. He was a sheet metal worker with Local #91 for over 17 years. For an additional 21 years, he worked for the Federal Bureau of Prisons UNICOR as a sheet metal supervisor.
Bob was a follower of Jesus Christ, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud Papaw who loved his family deeply and wholeheartedly. Bob was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church for many years. His relationship with the Lord was not just a part of his life; it was his firm foundation. One of the most beautiful expressions of that faith was his love for music and singing. There was something special about the way music brought him to life.
Bob shared a special bond with Jack, his beloved miniature dachshund and faithful companion who was rarely far from his side. Jack brought him comfort, companionship, and countless moments of joy. Bob also enjoyed spending time with family and friends while bass fishing and playing golf.
What made Bob special was not that he lived a perfect life, but that he lived a life filled with purpose. He loved deeply, gave generously, laughed, sang, believed, and treasured his family. He understood that the most meaningful things in life cannot be bought or measured. Some of his most cherished times come from our annual 4th of July family vacations.
Though our hearts break to be separated from him, there is comfort in knowing that he is now at peace with the Lord whom he loved and trusted throughout his life. We rest assured we will see him again. We know he is now free from pain and sorrow, and resting in the promise of eternal life.
Visitation will be 5pm to 7 p.m. Monday, October 12, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church. The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Bethel. Pastor Kevin Fogerty will officiate. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
