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Robert Mroz

Robert Mroz

FREEPORT, Ill. — Robert (Bob) Walter Mroz, 79, passed away on March 8, 2022, at Ascension St. Joseph’s Village in Freeport, Ill.

Bob was born in Norway, to Walter and Marjorie (Martin) Mroz on April 2, 1942. Bob shared many fond memories of his life growing up in the Upper Peninsula and did his best to never miss a class reunion with his friends at Norway High School Class of 1960.

It was in Norway that he met the love of his life, Judy Higgins, who spent summers with her family at their cottage on Lake Mary. They were married on June 15, 1963, and settled in the Chicago area and lived for many of those years in New Lenox, Ill. They had four children, Kathryn, Roberta, Stephen and Matthew.

His children were blessed with a dad who was always there to lend a hand or offer encouragement. His grandchildren loved to hang out with Papa watching TV while he snuck them treats from his secret stash. He deeply loved his family and he will be missed greatly.

Bob and Judy were active members of St. Jude church in New Lenox for many years. They faithfully served in several ministries at St. Jude with a joyful heart. They were blessed with cherished friendships in their church family.

Bob shared openly with others his life struggles and triumphs. In addition to his volunteering at church, he was involved for many years in local AA groups. With the support of many friends, he enjoyed sobriety for almost 38 years.

Bob is survived by his children, Kathryn (Scott) Anderson, Roberta “Bobbie” (Tom) DeFacci and Matthew (April) Mroz; his five grandchildren, Sarah (Brandon Berg) Anderson, TJ (Danielle) DeFacci, Chloe Mroz, Jacob Mroz and Rebecca Mroz; and one great-grandchild, James Joseph DeFacci.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Marjorie (Martin) Mroz; beloved wife, Judith; his son, Stephen; and his grandson, Joseph Edilio DeFacci.

To honor Bob and Judy, there will be a private memorial graveside service in Norway, over the summer and mass said at St. Jude Catholic Church in New Lenox.

Memorial donations can be made to the Children’s Gaucher Research Fund in honor of Bob and Judy’s grandson, Joseph E. DeFacci — Children’s Gaucher Research Fund, P.O. Box 2123, Granite Bay, California 95746 or to St. Jude Catholic Church, 241 W 2nd Ave., New Lenox, IL 60451.

Everyday by Bob Mroz

Everyday Lord Jesus, help me to know you better.

Everyday Lord Jesus, help me to love You more deeply.

Everyday Lord Jesus, help me to grow stronger in my faith.

Everyday Lord Jesus, help me to avoid sin.

Everyday Lord Jesus, help me to be more compassionate.

Everyday Lord Jesus, help me to forgive.

Everyday Lord Jesus, help me to disciple men so that they may come to know you.