Robert Hunter
January 12, 2019
Robert Hunter passed away on January 12, 2019 at 91. He was born in Chicago and after high school, he enlisted in the Army in 1946, serving in the 511 Parachute Infantry Regiment stationed in Japan.
After serving in the Army, he attended the University of Illinois majoring in civil engineering. Upon graduation in 1952, he began a career with Harza Engineering Company, working on hydroelectric projects all over the world, but predominantly in Central and South America. He retired in 1987 and pursued his second passion as a volunteer at the Illinois Railroad Museum restoring Pullman cars and using his engineering skills on various projects at the museum. He also worked with Kloke Locomotive Works on the design and construction of 2 full size, fully operational
steam locomotives.
He is survived by his two sons, Robert (Marguerite), grandchildren Kylie, Elliot, and Sean, and son Glenn (Annette), grandchildren Michael and Matthew. He was a guiding force and inspiration to his family. He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed.
Family will hold private services at a later date. Memorials can be made to the Illinois Railroad Museum, PO Box 427, Union, IL 60180.
Jerry Mennenga
01/22/2019
So sorry to hear about Bob's passing. I first met Bob when working with Dave Kloke in Elgin, Illinois and the Lincoln Funeral Car. We relied heavily on the plans that he drew to build the railroad car. It was a pleasure talking with Bob about his experiences and efforts coming up with the design. I don't know he ever got to see the completed car but it has been viewed by over 75,000 people over the eastern half of the US and currently resides under private ownership near Harrisburg, Penn. We are currently working on another railroad car based on Bob's design in Illinois. It is a replica of the first passenger car to travel from Chicago in 1848. It will be going to the same location to join the Lincoln Funeral Car in Pennsylvania in April. Bob's legacy will live on through these two projects and continued to be enjoyed by thousands of people. He will be missed.
Jerry Mennenga