Robert Klaus Obituary

Robert "Bob" Klaus, 90, of Peoria, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on September 16, 1935, Bob was the devoted husband of Jacqueline "Jackie" Hunter Klaus who passed away on July 14, 2010. They were married for 58 wonderful years. Together they built a beautiful family, raising three children - Scott (Erin) Klaus, Brenda (Rick) Klaus Peters, and Debi (Bobby) Meils. Bob was a proud and adoring grandfather to Chase, Abby, Samantha, Caroline, Hunter and Connor. He is also survived by his sister, Carmen Oakford. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Wilma Klaus and his brother, Richard Klaus.
A proud graduate of The University of Illinois, Bob led a distinguished career as President and CEO of Klaus Companies, a 94 year old company, started in Eureka, Illinois, by his father, which grew into a large midwestern distributorship for RCA and Whirlpool. The company at its peak had 5 locations. His professional influence extended through leadership and advisory roles with Jefferson Bank, Bank One, Commerce Bank, Prospect Bank, Multi Ad, Advanced Medical Transport and OSF St. Francis Medical Center Community Advisory Board. He served on the Whirlpool Distributor Advisory Council, as well as RCA Distributor Advisory. Bob was a University of Illinois Loyalty Circle founding member as well as a University of Illinois Foundation Board Member. Bob was a loyal member and president of Sigma Chi Fraternity, Kappa Kappa Chapter. Bob also played Illinois Baseball his freshman year, was a Peoria High School Distinguished Alumnus, and proudly served his country in the US Army.
Bob's love of life extended beyond business and community service. He was a member of First Federated Church for 90 years, the Country Club of Peoria, The Island Club of Marco Island, Hideaway Beach Club of Marco Island, as well as a member of The Golf Club at Black Rock of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. He cherished time spent with family and friends at his beautiful homes for over 46 years. Lake Owen was one of his favorites! He was a member of TIOX Golf Course. He loved spending time with all his grandchildren, especially taking a mozie on Lake Owen, as well as the dear friends he made on the lake. Most importantly, Dad adored his hometown of Peoria, Illinois and his abundance of friends! Bob was a founding member of the Glutton Club.
Dad will be remembered as an avid Fighting Illini fan having spent over 40 years going to football and basketball games. He also enjoyed being flown into Meig's Airport by Jackie and Scott, to attend 30 years of Chicago Bears football.
Dad will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and leader. His generosity, wisdom, and spirit of loyalty touched countless lives, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew Bob Klaus.
Memorial Services will be on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First Federated Church in Peoria. Visitation will be held one hour prior, also at the church. Pastor Ed Wegele will officiate, and a private burial of ashes has been accorded at the Columbarium at First Federated Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to OSF Healthcare Foundation to benefit the OSF Cancer Institute.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.wrightandsalmon.com