Robert Wisely Obituary

Robert E. "Rob" Wisely

June 13, 1959 - July 1, 2025

Robert "Rob" E. Wisely, 66, of Port Byron, IL, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, IL. No services are planned at this time. Gibson-Bode Funeral Home, Port Byron, is assisting the family with arrangements. A graduate of Riverdale High School and retiree of Parr Instrument Company after 41 years of service, he was known for his engaging personality and sense of humor. He was a generous man and a huge tease with witty banter.

In his youth he rode snowmobiles and was a golfer. He had a love for the outdoors and nature, including fishing and hunting. He especially loved his numerous cats, dogs, and grand-dogs throughout his years. Many were rescues and strays that he enjoyed helping.

He missed being active the last year and a half as his health declined, but would fill his time watching music videos on his Chromebook. A lover of country western music, he'd proclaim which artists were going to be the next great ones like George (Strait), Alan (Jackson) and Waylon (Jennings) and he'd call them by their first name like they were old friends. Like many, he couldn't believe how much he loved to follow the WNBA and the Indiana Fever. Go Lexie Hull!! Mostly he loved his family and visiting with friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Wisely; father, Maurice Wisely; and his brother Rodger Wisely. He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Ellen Wisely. He always said he took his "sidekick wife" with him everywhere so he "didn't have to kiss her goodbye". He was proud of his State Trooper step-son Eric Longenecker, his sassy daughter-in-law Heather Longenecker, granddaughter Madison Longenecker and grandson Johnathan Nelson.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Animal Protective League at apl-shelter.org, or QC Paws at qcpaws.org. Share a memory or condolence at www.gibsonbodefh.com.