Robert E. Nippe Obituary (1930 - 2024)

Robert E. Nippe, 93, of Bloomington, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024, at Carle BroMenn Medical Center, Normal. Honoring Bob's request there were no services, and cremation rites have been accorded by Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington. Memorials in Bob's name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN. Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.carmodyflynn.com. Bob was born May 22, 1930, in Flint, MI, the son of Edwin and Ruth Nippe. He married Peggy Sue Carlton December 17, 1955 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Danville, Illinois. Bob is survived by his wife of 68 years, their children, Doug (Laurie) Nippe, Chattanooga, TN, Kathryn (Tim Jeakins) Nippe-Jeakins, East Greenwich, RI, and Jennifer (Carlos) Bras, Normal, and grandchildren, Hannah Nippe, Chattanooga, TN, Emma Nippe, Chicago, IL, Benjamin Nippe-Jeakins, Kathryn Nippe-Jeakins and Olivia Nippe-Jeakins, all of East Greenwich, RI. Also surviving are sisters-in-law Ruby Collins, Jackson, MI, and Rosemarie Carlton Darby, Danville, IL, and many nieces and nephews. Bob graduated Stewardson-Strasburg High School where he excelled in baseball and basketball. He then attended Eastern Illinois University in Charleston prior to joining the United States Air Force and serving during the Korean Conflict. After being honorably discharged from the Air Force, Bob returned to Eastern to complete his degree in Social Science and Geography. It was there he met Peggy, his future bride. Beginning his professional career in education, Bob taught and coached at Octavia Junior High School . Eventually transitioning into insurance, Bob joined State Farm Insurance Companies in 1958 and moved the family to Winter Haven, FL, in 1962 for the opening of State Farm's new office. Returning to Illinois five years later, he retired from State Farm in 1992 after 34 years of service. His love of family and friends was evident. In his retirement he enjoyed spending time with his family, July vacations in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida with those who became lifelong friends, and playing a round of golf with his foursome. An avid duffer, he managed to card two holes-in-one. He also attended numerous events over the years for his grandchildren. Bob found few things more enjoyable than a filet from Jim's with a Gibson martini or a burger from the Western Tap. Bob was loved by many and will be missed beyond measure. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of Carle BroMenn for the kindness shown throughout Bob's final days.