Robert Wayne Brutcher

Princeton - Robert Wayne Brutcher, affectionately known as "Bob," passed away peacefully at his home in Princeton, IL, on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on May 13, 1948, Bob was the beloved son of Robert LaVern Brutcher and Mary Christine (Bickett) Brutcher. A proud graduate of Princeton High School, Class of 1966, Bob pursued higher education with dedication, earning his Bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and later a Master's degree from Illinois State University. Bob's passion for education led him to begin his career as a science teacher. With a deep commitment to fostering learning, he continued his career in educational leadership, ultimately serving as Superintendent in Anna Jonesboro, IL, Pittsfield, IL and retiring from Albion, IL. Bob was an active member of the Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow in Albion and found joy in connecting with his community in various ways. He was known for his love of writing stories, his enthusiasm for community theater, and the warmth he brought to classrooms by reading to kindergarten students. Bob had a special dedication to the foreign exchange students he worked with and enjoyed broadening their horizons as much as his own. His interests extended to collecting coffee mugs, each one a memento from different places, symbolizing his love of travel and connection with people from all walks of life. He leaves behind a legacy of service, warmth, and dedication to his family, students, colleagues, and community. His memory will be cherished by his friends, former students, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Surviving Bob, his siblings, Frank Brutcher of Princeton, IL, Bruce (Sandy) Brutcher of Rantoul, IL, Marianna (Kelly) Barkley of Princeton, IL, Brian (Bonnie) Brutcher of Santa Anna, CA, David (Enid) Brutcher of Altamont Springs, FL, and Janet (Rob) Huffstodt of Valparaiso, IN; nephews, nieces, great nieces, great nephews and two aunts as well as a multitude of cousins and friends. Preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his parents, Robert and Mary Brutcher, one brother Richard Brutcher as well as aunts, uncles and cousins. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Princeton High School Foundation in Princeton, IL in Bob's name. A visitation will be held in Princeton, IL, at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Funeral Services being held immediately after visitation at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Michael Hickok officiating. Graveside services to follow at Oakland Cemetery in Princeton, Il with words of comfort offered by Pastor Michael Hickok. Online condolences may be directed to www.norbergfh.com Arrangements by Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments.

Robert Wayne Brutcher

May 13, 1948 - October 17, 2024