Robert Dean Stalder, 68, of Marseilles, passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday, December 22 at Fox River Lutheran Church. Funeral services will follow at 12 p.m. at the church with Reverend Kevin Garner officiating. Burial will be in Northville Cemetery.

He was born on January 11, 1955, in Casper, WY, to Carl C. and Imogene (Keeler) Stalder. On May 25, 1974, he married Debra Foster of Casper, WY, who survives.

Robert grew up in Linch, WY- a small oil field camp. He was active in his school sports and activities. When in high school he worked the oil field and also picked up ranch work. Rob attended the University of Wyoming, graduated with a degree in secondary education, specializing in social sciences and coaching high school sports. Through all his youth years and into adulthood, his favorite sport was always basketball.

After spending a short time teaching, Rob decided to change vocations and began working at the mines. At that time, he picked up a master's degree in business and several safety certifications (CSP, CMSP). In his lifetime, he worked every imaginable type of mining - from coal to gold to silica. Robert was on several mine rescue teams, often serving as map man and team trainer. He was a member of the national Mine Rescue Team for many years. Rob also served on the governors' board of mine examiners for the state of Wyoming and Colorado. He eventually began working for the Department of Labor where he enjoyed his work as a mine safety inspector.

Rob enjoyed working in his wood shop, gardening, playing basketball, traveling, and spending time with family and friends, and especially the grandkids. He greatly enjoyed Bible studies, and men's breakfast fellowship.

As sadden as we are by our loss we know we will have a heavenly reunion with him in Glory. His favorite verse was Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthen me." He would witness to all he encountered and has left a joyful impact on the ones that knew him. He has left an eternal legacy to his children and grandchildren and will always be remembered.

He is survived by his wife, Deb; his children, Misty (Jose) Osegueda of Stafford, VA, Shawn (Patti) Stalder of Oconomowoc, WI, and Kiara (Patrick) Tyrrell, Somonauk IL; six grandchildren, Cory, Christian, Katie, Abigail, Emma, and Michael; and his two brothers, Bryce (Kathy) Stalder, and John (Ruth) Stalder.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials may be directed to Answers In Genesis, www.AnswersInGenesis.org

Seals-Campbell Funeral Home

1009 E. Bluff St., Marseilles, IL 61341

815-795-5151 www.sealscampbell.com