Donald L. Robson Sr.

Donald L. Robson, Sr., age 92, of Poplar Grove, IL, passed away on October 17, 2024.  He leaves behind his family; wife, Marcia Robson, daughter Beverly Iversen and sons Donald Robson, Jr, and Chris and Phil Keithley.  

Donald was born February 8, 1932, in Chicago, IL to Fanibel “Win” Walker and Clarence Robson.  Don was educated in Chicago and graduated from Steinmetz High School in 1952, earning his GED while he was in the service. Don used the GI Bill to attend DeVry Technical Institute where he earned many certifications in electronics and television and radio repair from 1954-1955.  His education and experiences led him to be a hobbyist in CB broadcasting where he met many friends and traveled extensively.  He worked in electronics for many years, then moved on to quality control/assurance, finishing with his work for Prince Castle, a commercial restaurant equipment manufacturer.  Don ended his working career in the financial services sector working his way through the mergers and acquisitions of many companies until retirement.

Donald was preceded in death by his first wife, Beatrice Rose Witwicki, who passed away in 1978.  He married Marcia Dunham Keithley, originally from Mansfield, Ohio, in June of 1979, blending two families and four children.  Don lived much of his life in Addison, IL working many years as a volunteer in youth sports with the Addison Rec Club.  Stops in Iowa, and Ohio came next, working with senior living residences with Marcia before coming back to Poplar Grove, IL in 2006.  Don spent his final days being lovingly cared for in Poplar Grove at Maple Crest/Symphony  here in Boone County. 

Don became active in the United Methodist church with his marriage to Marcia at Good Samaritan UMC in Naperville.  As he moved, other churches were gifted with his presence and leadership including Marengo UMC and Trinity UMC in Ohio.  Back in Poplar Grove, Don was a beloved member of Poplar Grove United Methodist Church for over 18 years.  He attended worship faithfully and volunteered as much as he was able until the very end.

Don enlisted in the Marine Corps before finishing high school and served his country for 13 months in Korea. While in Korea, he proudly fought with the C15 infantry and was in the Corps from 1951-54.  He was always very proud of his service and spent many years in service to the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Addison, the Korean War Veterans in Ohio and the Marine Corps League of Rockford, serving their membership and providing leadership in many different roles. We are proud of his service to the military throughout his life.

Visitation for Don will be on Tuesday, October 22 from 4-7 pm and before the funeral on Wednesday, October 23 from 10-11 am.  The funeral will start at 11 am followed by the Marine Corps Honor Guard and a luncheon in fellowship hall.  All activities will take place at Poplar Grove UMC, 105 E Grove St, Poplar Grove, IL.   In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Poplar Grove United Methodist Church’s Memorial and Gifts Fund. The family would like to especially thank Symphony/Maple Crest of Belvidere and Sanctuary Hospice of Rockford for their loving care throughout Don’s final chapter.  Thank you to everyone who has called, prayed, or reached out in support during this difficult and blessed time in our lives. 

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