Robert G. Major

Robert (Bob) Gordon Major, 77, was born, raised, and lived his engaging life in the greater Chicago area. He passed away suddenly, but peacefully, at his home in Homewood, IL, sitting next to his beloved Christmas tree.

Bob was known for his passionate, loving, and dedicated personality and his strong commitment to service.  He had a joyous but goofy sense of humor and a generous spirit. His compassion, love, and commitment to others was evident in his devotion to his children and grandson, and in his relationships with his siblings, extended family, and the broader local community.

Bob graduated from Mount Carmel High School (Chicago), Saint Joseph's College (IN), and earned his Master's degree from Governors State University.   His professional life as a school psychologist for Fullbright/Excel Schools, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Heights School District, Glenwood School District, Livingston County Schools, and Indian Oaks Academy was dedicated to furthering the well-being of students challenged in life—a passion he continued to his final day.  His exceptional commitment to service was further expressed through his passionate volunteer work with his church, community, Knights of Columbus, and his several mission trips to Haiti.  His passion for life was also expressed through culinary exploits. A day spent touring wineries during a visit to the Pacific Northwest in the 1980s unleashed a latent vinophile, so much so that for a time he explored breaking into the business side of the wine industry.  His love of wine, food, good times and camaraderie enlivened family gatherings and cemented many friendships through his life's journey.  Bob was also a passionate gardener, turning a small patio behind his apartment building into a flourishing mini garden, whose bounty he generously shared with many.

Bob is survived by his children Christopher, Matthew, Kimberly (Paul), Jillian, grandson Mason, former spouse Jeanne, siblings Jon (Michelle), Nancy (Scot), and Katie (Mike), nieces Mary (Clint), Emma, Erica, Kaela, and Lia, nephews Ryan (Jessica) and Jonathan (Rachel), and grand nieces and nephews Brinley, Caden, Benajmin, Sawyer and Kaysen.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mary Margaret Major, and former spouse Bonnie Major.

Bob will be sorely and deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. "It's a tough job being Bob, but someone had to do it," and he did it well.

The wake will be held at Tews-Ryan Funeral Home on Sunday, January 14th, from 1-4:30 pm. A service will be held starting at 4:30 p.m. from the Knights of Columbus.  The funeral mass will be held at St. John Neumann Catholic Church (formerly St. Joseph's) on Monday, January 15th at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the family. All memorials will be used to commemorate Robert with a public tribute that will be shared by the family at a later date.