Robert A. Bethel

Robert A. Bethel, age 68, of Pearl, IL passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at his home.  He was born on September 1, 1954 in Pittsfield, IL to Chester and Mary Gajewski Bethel.

Robert graduated from East Pike High School in 1972 and later went on to attend Hardin Business College.  He worked for over 20 years as a security guard in Louisiana, MO and then went to work for the Pearl Post Office as a rural mail carrier.  He retired after working there for 7-8 years.  Robert was a member of Pearl Christian Church and maintained a good relationship with the Lord throughout his life.  In younger years, he enjoyed playing baseball and going fishing.  He loved watching sports on tv and was a St. Louis Cardinals fan.  Robert was an avid chess player and participated in many tournaments over the years.  He lived a quiet life but enjoyed visiting with his few close friends.  Robert spoke kindly and had a big heart.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand.  He dearly loved his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy (Ron) Hubert of Mt. Olive, IL; nephew, Lanny (Dena) Ribes of Benld, IL; nieces, Lisa (Jon) Roberts of Charlotte, NC and Lori Crossman of Benld, IL; nephew-in-law, Andy Crossman of Land of Lakes, FL; special family friend, Lisa Kowlaski; and numerous great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 11:30 AM at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with interment to follow at Greenpond Cemetery near Pearl.  Visitation will be held prior to the service on Monday from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to be made to Pearl Christian Church.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

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