Robert J. Gusich

Gusich, Robert J. Late of Lemont, IL, died on December 25, 2010 at Joliet Area Community Hospice Home. Robert is survived by his brother, John Gusich, sister, Doris Kelley, and sister-in-law, Charlene Larson. Survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Anna (Nemanich) Gusich, his loving wife of 64 years, Doris M. (Hermes) Gusich (December 23, 2010.) Bob was born August 31 in Joliet, IL. He graduated from Lewis High School, attended Oklahoma City College and Joliet Junior College. He joined the United States Army Air Corps as a Cadet on December 14, 1942. Assigned to the 39th Fighter Squadron February 1945 as a First Lieutenant. Flying the P-47 and P-51, completing 91 combat missions, which consisted of fighter sweeps over the Philippines, Japan and bomber escort missions. In 1946, Bob was discharged from Active service as a Major. Bob returned to college to complete his education. He retired from the Reserves in 1972 as a Colonel. In civilian life, he worked for American Airlines until retiring on September 1, 1984 as a Captain. Bob and his lovely wife always attended the reunions of the 39th Fighter Squadron Association. A Celebration of Robert and Doris' Lives will be held on Wednesday, December 29 at 10:15AM, then in procession to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lockport for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00AM. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Joliet. Visitation will be from 9:00AM until time of prayers.