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 John Robert "Bob" von Almen III, 79, of Alton, IL, passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at his residence. Bob was born on September 15, 1945, in Olney, IL, to John Robert and Julia (Campbell) von Almen II.
He graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science in 1968 and was drafted into the United States Army in 1969 to serve in the Vietnam War. During his service, Bob received several distinguished honors, including the Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Medal, Air Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal with Palm Ribbon. After returning home in 1971, Bob resumed his career in the funeral industry, serving the Alton and Godfrey communities for the majority of his professional life. He later returned to the industry post-retirement with Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home.
On June 17, 1983, Bob married Barbara Edwards at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey, IL. She survives.
Bob was a dedicated member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, and he enjoyed spending time with his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and extended family. His love for his family was evident, and he took great joy in their company. Additionally, Bob was a member of the VFW Post 1308 and had a passion for fishing and gardening.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara von Almen of Alton; three daughters, Jennifer (Dennis) Reams, Sarah von Almen, and Catharine (Kevin) Kahrig; five grandchildren, Janna and Natalie Reams, Evan Bennett, Kora and Kash Kahrig; his sister-in-law, Stephanie von Almen of Jerseyville; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by two brothers, Tom and David von Almen, a sister, Judy Miller, and his brother-in-law, Curtis Miller.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home, Godfrey, IL.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Alton, with Fr. Jeff Holtman O.F.S. as celebrant.
Interment will follow at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Jerseyville, IL.
Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home, Godfrey, IL
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Michael Fredric Bauman (1964)
Bob and I spent many hours discussing the war in VietNam , Bob was a draftee and rose to the rank of sargent /platoon leader in the 101st Airborn division 1968-69, the same time I was there as a gunship pilot .Although we were unaware of each others presence we discovered thru conversations that we were in the same battles at the same time ! Bob was a good man.