Bobby F. Horton

Bobby F. Horton, age 83, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 1, 2018 with his loving family by his side.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Sandra (nee Melville) Horton; his adored daughters, Cindy (Gary) Picha and Robin (Michael) Dziuban; his cherished grandchildren, Erin (Daniel) Engelman, Kelly Picha, Samantha (fiancé Tyler Corwin) Dziuban and Kristin Dziuban; great-grandchildren, Hailey, Holly, Ava and Emmett; twin sister, Billie (Lee) Finch; sister-in-law, Etta Mae (the late Woodrow) Horton; and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Preceded in by death by his parents, Allie J. & Frances (nee Haney) Horton; brother, Woodrow Horton; sister, Rosa (Carroll) Roper; great granddaughter, Ella Dziuban; brother-in-law and buddy, John A. Melville, Jr. and best friend John (Jack) Peterson.

Bobby was born on April 23, 1935 in Turrell, Arkansas and grew up on the family farm. After graduating H.S. in 1953, he enlisted in the United States Army and served for (3) years.  He then moved to Joliet to begin his employment with the EJ & E Railroad.  Shortly after his arrival, he was introduced to the love of his life, Sandy.  He retired from the “J” in 1993 as the Car Shop Foreman following 37 years of service.

Bobby was an avid reader, card player, and classy dresser.  He took great pride in maintaining his lawn and spent countless hours working in his garden where he grew his infamous “Papa ‘matoes.”  Throughout his life, Bobby was a man of strong faith and a dedicated member of the church.  Bobby cherished the time he spent with friends and family and most importantly any time spent with “His girls”.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bobby’s name to Judson Church, Joliet, IL.

A celebration of Bobby’s life will begin on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 with a service in the funeral home chapel at 10:00 a.m., Pastor Kevin Comfort officiating.  The family invites relatives and friends to gather at 9:30 a.m.  Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.  Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet.

Obituary and Tribute Wall for Bobby F. Horton at www.tezakfuneralhome.com or for information, 815-722-0524.

Arrangements entrusted to Tezak's Home to Celebrate Life.