Published on July 29, 2025 3:29 pm
Last Updated on July 29, 2025 3:29 pm
Robert “Bob” Schwindt 78, of Neoga, Illinois passed away at 10:46 AM Sunday July 27, 2025 at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Illinois.
Bob was born September 9, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois son of Fred and Rose (Viverito) Schwindt. He married Sharna Gordon August 12, 1972 in Mattoon, Illinois. Mr. Schwindt was a Retired Teacher, Coach and Principal for the Neoga Unit School District. Bob was a member of the First Christian Church in Neoga and the Retired Teacher’s Association.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sharna Schwindt of Neoga, Illinois; daughter, Kristi (Brian) Fritts of Mattoon, Illinois; son, Scott (Olivia) Schwindt of Springfield, Illinois; brother, Fred (Fatima) Schwindt of Wildwood, Illinois; sister, Diana (Jim) Nicke of Sebring, Florida; grandchildren, Paige, Tristan and Ellis Schwindt.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Susan Raucci.
Bob devoted much of his life to his church and community, always ready with a helping hand and a kind heart. He had a special passion for working with young people—offering guidance, encouragement, and a steady presence. Nothing brought him more joy than reconnecting with those same kids years later, now grown and thriving. He took great pride in the people they had become and felt deep fulfillment knowing he had made a difference in their lives, but where Bob shined the brightest was in his role as “Papa.” Nothing made him happier than time spent with his grandkids—whether it was cheering from the sidelines, helping with schoolwork, or simply being present for life’s everyday moments. He was their biggest fan, their rock, and their constant source of love and support.
To know Bob was to know love—steady, selfless, and unconditional. He will be missed more than words can express, but his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he upheld, and the family he cherished beyond measure.
Memorials are suggested to the Robert Schwindt Memorial Fund for scholarships to students pursuing a career in education.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM Friday August 1, 2025 in the First Christian Church in Neoga, Illinois. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM Thursday July 31, 2025 in the First Christian Church and Friday from 10:00 AM until service time also in the church. The Swengel – O’Dell Funeral Home of Neoga is assisting with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.swengel-odell.com