Joseph Robert “Bob” Safranek, 85, of Paw Paw, passed away January 21, 2013 at Mendota Community Hospital after an extended illness. He was born March 30, 1927, the son of Joseph and Sophie Safranek. He was united in marriage to Mary Jump on August 6, 1953.
Bob grew up on the streets of Paw Paw. He proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Navy, boatswain’s mate 3rd class. After his service, he returned home and owned and operated Safranek’s grocery store in Paw Paw. He later worked at General Electric in Dekalb as well as for the Illinois Tollway. He built, owned, and operated the laundromat in Paw Paw. He retired from his job as a janitor at NIU after over 20 years of service. Bob was a member of the Smith-Reynolds American Legion Post 511. In his later years, Bob became an unofficial historian of Paw Paw.
He is survived by two daughters, Mari (Deon) Dettore of Warroad, MN and Stephanie (John) Prentice of Paw Paw; one granddaughter and three grandsons; brother Erwin Safranek (Anna Johnson) and Otto (June) Safranek, both of Paw Paw; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friends Sylvia Meyers and Kay Zimmerman.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Mary, and a sister Violet (Raymond) Rees.
Visitation will be held from 5-8 P.M. Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at First Presbyterian Church of Paw Paw, 398 Chicago Road, in Paw Paw.
Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M. Thursday, January 24, 2013 at the First Presbyterian Church. Rev. Dr. Anne Hoflen and Rev. Ken Foster will officiate. Interment will follow in Wyoming Township Cemetery in Paw Paw.
Memorials may be directed to the American Legion or T.A.I.L.S. Humane Society, 2250 Barber Greene Rd., DeKalb, IL 60115.
For information, contact Torman Funeral Home at 815-627-3811. Online condolences may be expressed at www.TormanFuneralHome.com.
