Robert J. Hoskins, 86, died Thursday, July 02, 2009, at Hannibal Regional Hospital.

He was born May 3, 1923, in Barry, IL, to George and Beulah (Cobern) Hoskins.  He married Doris Megehe on June 1, 1946 in Quincy, IL.  She survives in Kinderhook, IL.

He is also survived by two sons, Reginal (wife Janet) and Dwight (wife Christie), daughter Debora (husband Jessie), five grandchildren, Travis Schmeisser, Joshua Story, Meghan Story, Shea Hoskins, Logan Hoskins and sister Virginia Davis.

His parents and two sisters, Bonnie Vaughn and Shirley Baker, preceded him in death.

He proudly served our country in the US Navy during World War II from December 13, 1942 to January 12, 1946 as a Gunners Mate Third Class aboard the USS Oakland.  He served in the American Theater, Asiatic Pacific Area and the Philippine Liberation.  During his service he was awarded the Good Conduct and Victory medals.

After serving in the Navy, he actively farmed in the Kinderhook and Barry area for the next 32 years.  After retiring from farming, he worked for 10 years as a Head Custodian for the Hannibal Public Schools.

On November 7, 2008, Robert celebrated 60 continuous years of membership in the American Legion and was presented with his Certificate of Continuous Membership in March of this year.

He was a member of the United Baptist Church in Kinderhook.  During his retirement years, he spent the winter months in Florida with Doris enjoying the southern climate, their many friends and unique experiences it offered.  His hobbies included woodcarving, golf and site seeing.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 11 a.m. at the United Baptist Church in Kinderhook, IL, with Pastor Greg Maize officiating.  Burial will be at the Kinderhook Cemetery, with military rites by the Barry American Legion Post #222.  Visitation will be held on Sunday evening from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, IL.  Memorials are suggested to the Barry American Legion Post #222.  On-line condolences may be left at www.nieburfh.com.