Guest column: Celebrating a Hometown Hero: Robert (Bob) Cotner

The Write Team has long been a place where words come alive – where contributors share their unique voices and perspectives.

Among those voices was one that stood out not just for its eloquence but for its unmatched passion and depth: Robert (Bob) Cotner, a true Hometown Hero.

Bob Cotner was more than a writer; he was a scholar, poet and storyteller who wove his wisdom and compassion into every article he contributed. His pieces resonated with readers because they came from a place of genuine curiosity and a profound love for the written word. Bob’s ability to intertwine personal flair with deep knowledge was a skill few could replicate, making his contributions both thought-provoking and heartfelt.

As a writer, Bob brought the world closer to his readers. He opened windows to new ideas, invited us to explore the nuances of life, and reminded us of the beauty in both the simple and the profound. But his legacy extends far beyond his words.

Born in Ligoneer, Indiana, in 1935, Bob lived a life marked by intellectual brilliance, compassionate service and creative passion. From his time as a university professor in the U.S. and Liberia to his executive roles with The Salvation Army and Shriners Hospitals for Children, Bob dedicated his life to uplifting others. Yet, it was his poetry and essays that revealed the depths of his heart.

Bob founded the Caxtonian Literary Magazine in 1993, a testament to his love for literature and his commitment to fostering a community of writers. His family, friends and colleagues will remember him as a man who not only cherished words but also used them to inspire and connect.

Bob’s life was deeply rooted in family. As a husband to our lovely Norma, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he embodied kindness, generosity and love. His presence was a guiding light for his loved ones, and his wisdom and humor enriched their lives immeasurably.

We continue to mourn Bob’s passing, and we also celebrate the extraordinary life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. His contributions to the Write Team were a gift to us all, a reflection of a life dedicated to learning, teaching and sharing.

A memorial service will be Sunday, Dec. 22, at Refuge Coffee & Co. in Seneca. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation will help establish the Bob Cotner Memorial Scholarship Fund, a fitting tribute to a man who spent his life nurturing minds and spirits. To learn more, go to srccf.org/fund/bob-cotner-memorial-scholarship-fund.

Bob Cotner may no longer be with us, but his words, his wisdom and his kindness will echo in our hearts and pages for years to come. Thank you, Bob, for inspiring us all.

• Sally M. Van Cura is executive director of La Salle County Court Appointed Special Advocates and has held many other leadership roles for nonprofit organizations throughout the Illinois Valley.