Robert “Bob” Lee Bayes, 94, of Findlay, Illinois, passed away on December 17, 2025, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon, Illinois. Bob’s life was a testament to his strong values, work ethic, and love for those around him.
Born on January 2, 1931, in Ashmore, Illinois, the son of Lester Albert and Doris Mae (Waters) Bayes. After graduating from Kansas Community High School in 1948, Bob embarked on a journey of commitment to his country. He proudly served as a medical officer in the United States Army during the Korean War, a period that shaped much of his character and instilled in him a sense of duty that he carried throughout his life.
Upon returning from service, Bob began a fulfilling career at Caterpillar in Decatur, where he dedicated 31 years before retiring. Bob found love with Myrtle Aileen Snyder, and the two were united in marriage on October 11, 1952, in Charleston. Their loving partnership was a source of strength until Myrtle's passing on December 4, 2003. They were blessed with four children-Steven, Brenda, Cheryl and Thomas.
He leaves behind his daughters, Brenda (John) Taber of Charleston, and Cheryl (Randy) Jones of Farmer City; son, Thomas (Veronica) Bayes of Sullivan; 10 grandchildren, Dacia, Rachel, Daniel, Michael, Andrew, Jarad, Brielle, Mikayla, Holli, and Thomas “TJ”; 17 great-grandchildren and his sister, Peggy Clapp.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Myrtle, his son Steven Daniel Bayes, and his brother Bill Bayes.
Bob was a member of the Findlay Christian Church. He had a passion for cars, working on all types. Camping trips with his family were cherished times, allowing him to instill in his children and grandchildren a love for nature and adventure. Traveling was more than a pastime; it was a way for Bob to explore and meet new people, and his camera was always at the ready to capture moments that would become precious memories. His garden was a source of pride and joy, he enjoyed reaping the benefits of his labor by watching his vegetable garden flourish.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the First Christian Church in Findlay, with Pastor Richard Hargrave officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Findlay Cemetery with military honors by Clarence Bixler American Legion Post 409 of Findlay. Memorials in Bob’s honor may be made to the Clarence Bixler American Legion Post 409 of Findlay and may be mailed to Lockart-Green Funeral Home, 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565.
Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.
