Robert E. Hedstrom, 87, a long time Wheaton resident passed away on Friday, July 1 at Manor Care Health Services of Westmont. He was born on May 22, 1924 in Hollywood, CA to Lowry H. and Marie Hedstrom. He was raised in Lombard and graduated from Wheaton Academy in 1942. He lettered in his sophomore year and was elected co-captain of his team.
Bob's military service in the European Theatre was from June, 1942 to November, 1945. He served under Gen. G. Patton, a member of Pattons "Ghost Troops," in the 3rd Cavalry.
Bob (class of '50), met his wife of 64 years, (Ellen Bowler - class of '49) at the Stupe at Wheaton College. He was illustrator for the Wheaton Tower Year Book. They were married January 1, 1946.
He is survived by his wife, Ellen; three daughters, Janet (Tom) Konrath, Joyce Brown and Leslie (Tim) Hultgren; nine grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Ruth Noble of PA and Ione (John) Hensley of Hampshire, IL; one brother, Lowry "Butch" (Carol) Hedstrom and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Marie "Lou" Sanderson of Belvidere, Joan Rexilius of Aurora and Jeanne Thompson of San Diego, CA.
Mr. Hedstrom was an exhibit salesman for Trade Shows where he won many awards. He worked for the Billy Graham telephone ministries for many years. He was always interested in the missionaries from Wheaton Ev. Free Church where he was a long time member and was faithful to pray for them. He served several terms on the Mission Board of the church.
Bob also volunteered at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Center of Wheaton where he did cartooning. He also volunteered at Cantigny for 16 years.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 6, from 10 am until time of services at 11 am at Wheaton Ev. Free Church, 520 E. Roosevelt Road, Wheaton. Interment will take place at Abraham Lincoln Veterans' Cemetery, Elwood, IL.
Hultgren Funeral Home, Wheaton is in charge of arrangements. For further information and guest book see www.hultgrenfh.com or Hultgren's at 630-668-0027.