Robert Edward Townsend

Robert Edward Townsend, age 87, of Park Forest, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on May 27, 2022. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Anna and Clyde Townsend, sister Paula Richardson, and son Scott Robert Townsend. Robert is survived by his wife Julie Townsend, children David (Anne) Townsend, Denise Townsend, and Mark (Katie) Townsend, stepchildren, Dan (Pamela) Beebe and Dean (Karmen) Beebe, and grandchildren, Paul, Laura, Emily, Logan, Xena, Darrah and Gabriel, and his sister Donna (Don) Weber.

Robert graduated in 1958 from North Central College with a BA in English and then from Garrett Theological Seminary with a Masters of Divinity.  Pastor Bob was ordained as an elder in 1962 and served Methodist, Disciples of Christ, United Church of Christ, and Presbyterian congregations until 2013.  He also served the community as a firefighter and scout leader. Robert enjoyed golf, tennis, and singing in the choir. He loved the natural world and the joy of children. 

If you would like to make a gift in Robert’s memory, donations may be sent to Lewy Body Dementia Association online or mailed to 912 Killian Hill Road SW, Lilburn, Georgia, 30047 or to Calvary United Protestant Church online or mailed to 425 N. Orchard Drive, Park Forest, IL 60466.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.  Robert will be dearly missed and will always hold a special place in our hearts.