Robert J. "Bob" Parkins, 85, passed away on November 13, 2025, from complications of diabetes. Bob was born in Ottawa, Illinois, being the youngest of four, he naturally developed a competitive spirit early. He embraced life with a sparkle in his eye, a touch of mischief, and a laugh that could light up any room.

Recognized for exceptional high school athletic achievement in football, basketball, and track, he was inducted into the Ottawa High School Hall of Fame. His talents earned him a scholarship to Montana State University, where he lettered in both basketball and track from 1958–1962.  His years at MSU forged lifelong friendships and created a bond with the Bobcat community that remained one of the defining passions of his life.

After earning his business degree, Bob moved to Great Falls, Montana, where he worked for the Del E. Webb Corporation at Malmstrom Air Force Base during the installation of the Minuteman Missiles. He continued to support MSU sports from afar, became a respected local high-school basketball referee, and excelled in city-league basketball -proudly noting his repeated championship seasons.

In 1967, Bob returned to Ottawa, where he began a long and successful career with Borg-Warner/General Electric. After earning a second degree in fire safety from Illinois State, he served as a paramedic and firefighter instructor and became GE's Western Safety Manager until his early retirement in 1995.

In 2002, Bob and his wife Pat, moved to Bozeman, where he spent his later years surrounded by friends, former teammates, and the MSU community he cherished. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and unwavering loyalty to MSU.

Bob is survived by his wife, Patricia (Pat); his daughters, Diane Degenkolb (husband Steve), Debbie Masiak, both from Indiana; 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; two older sisters, Jean Peterson, Illinois, Joanne Torcelli, Florida; and brother-in-law, William (Janeen) Goodin of Marseilles, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Sanford Parkins; his brother, Everett; and stepsons, Nicholas and Christopher Howell.

Memorial visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday December 5 at Seals-Campbell Funeral Home in Marseilles. A celebration of life will follow at 4 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Shawn Saldano of the Marseilles United Methodist Church in Marseilles officiating. Burial was in Galloway Cemetery in Fall River Township.

Seals-Campbell Funeral Home

1009 E. Bluff St., Marseilles, IL 61341

815-795-5151 www.sealscampbell.com