SAUNEMIN – Robert E. Gaston, 91, of Saunemin, Illinois passed away Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Evenglow Lodge in Pontiac, Illinois. Funeral services were held in the United Methodist Church in Saunemin at 11 a.m., Tuesday, August 17, 2021. Pastor Jane Bradford officiated. Masks were encouraged to be worn. Visitation was held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at the church. Cremation rites were accorded and burial will be in Sunny Slope Cemetery, Saunemin, at a later date. Memorials in Robert’s name may be made to the United Methodist Church of Saunemin or the Alzheimer’s Association. Robert was born March 17, 1930 in rural Emington, Illinois, a son of Robert J. and Nora (O’Brien) Gaston. He married Ann Rich in 1951 at the United Methodist Church in Saunemin. She survives in Saunemin. Also surviving are his children, JoAnn Jenkins of Bloomington, Illinois; Karen (Billy) Sims of Saunemin; Jean McGuffin of Pontiac; James “Jim” (Shelah) Gaston of Emington; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents; brother, John Gaston; sister, Mary Rieck; son-in-law, Gary Jenkins; and niece, Carol Rieck-Hahn. Robert served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War from 1951-1955. He was a member of the American Legion Post 5310. He was also a member of the United Methodist Church in Saunemin. He graduated from Saunemin High School in 1948. He was an avid White Sox fan and enjoyed spending time with his family and tending to his yardwork. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor. This obituary may be viewed and guestbook signed at www.calvertmemorial.com

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