Published on April 13, 2026 1:11 pm
Last Updated on April 16, 2026 6:49 pm
David Patrick “Animal” Robert, age 71, of Newton, Illinois, passed away at 7:11 PM on Sunday evening, April 12, 2026, south of Greenup, Illinois.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 PM on Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois. Funeral services celebrating David’s life will be held following with Tom Matson officiating. Military rites by the Jasper Post #20 American Legion will be held following the service. The obituary can be viewed and condolences left at www.meyerfh.com.
David was born on February 25, 1955, in Paducah, Kentucky, the son of Ziler John “Pat” and Ruth Marie (Crosswhite) Robert. He graduated from Cape Girardeau High School.
David served his country in the United States Navy from June 27, 1973, during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged on December 24, 1974.
David married Josephine Lopez on May 20, 2000, and she survives.
David was a boilermaker for many years and a member of Local 363. He attended New Beginnings Church in Newton and was a member of Mad Dogs MC Illinois.
David enjoyed riding his motorcycle and visiting with family and friends and was always willing to help a friend in need.
David is survived by:
Wife – Josephine Robert
Children – Erica (Tony) Hill of Altamont, Illinois; Valerie (Eric) Mullen of Casey, Illinois and Alexander Robert of Neoga, Illinois
Stepchildren – Michael Walters of Neoga, Illinois; Jennifer Gozales of Houston, Texas; Jimmy (Tina) Gonzales of Altamont, Illinois; Edward (Anna) Ward of Las Vegas, Nevada; Jessica (Robert) Jones of Teutopolis, Illinois; and John Ward of Newton, Illinois
19 Grandchildren
5 Great Grandchildren
Siblings – Robert John (Myra) Robert of Newton, Illinois; Barbara (Robert) Terry of North Carolina and Roberta White of Newburgh, Indiana.
David was preceded in death by his parents.