Robert Hemminger

STERLING – Robert Hemminger, 70, of Sterling, passed away Thursday, March 3, 2016, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Robert was born Jan. 1, 1946, in Sterling, the son of Wallace and Ellen (Thompson) Hemminger. He married Joni Marshall on April 17, 1995, in Elizabeth. Robert was a lifelong mechanic, having most recently owned and operated Hemminger Repair in Rock Falls. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family. Robert was an avid fisherman and enjoyed working in his garden.

Survivors include his wife, Joni Hemminger; four daughters, Erika Lecaj of Chicago, Bobbie (Rick) Olauson of Aberdeen, South Dakota, Laura Petty of Longview, Texas, and Tammy Hemminger of VanBuren, Arkansas; two sons, Marvin Hemminger and Robert (Michelle Tyne) Hemminger Jr., both of Rock Falls; three sisters, Betty (Dennis) Waldron and Mary (Barry) Dickhut, both of Sterling, and Sharon (Bob Sipes) Cheshier of DeKalb; four brothers, Larry (Marilyn) Hemminger of Rock Falls, Wallace (Sharon) Hemminger of Oxnard, California, James Hemminger of Rock Falls, and David (Fran) Hemminger of Sterling; two sisters-in-law, Julie Marshall and Dawn (John Bamborough) Marshall, both of Sterling; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one niece, Kim Hemminger; and one son-in-law, Ray Petty.

Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday at McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home, with Rita Wolf, chaplain, officiating. Private family burial will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial been established to Hospice of the Rock River Valley and Home of Hope Cancer Wellness Center.

Visit mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com to send condolences.