Robert E. Tasker

Robert Eugene Tasker, 73, of East Galesburg, died at 7:55 p.m. Tuesday, November 13, 2018 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg. Bob was born July 3, 1945 in Galesburg, the son of James G. and Pauline F. (Swanson) Tasker. He married Karen Kay Metelka on June 24, 1972 at First Lutheran Church in Galesburg. She survives of East Galesburg. Bob is also survived by one son, Garrett (Erin) Tasker of Galesburg; one daughter, Amy (Ed) Ponce of Normal; and five grandsons, Paxton and Maverick Tasker, and Andrew, Benjamin, and Matthew Ponce. Bob’s brother, Gary (Kathy) Tasker survives of Chatham; as does Bob’s mother in law, Mildred Metelka and sister in law, Marla Dade both of London Mills. Along with his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his father in law, Frank Metelka. Bob graduated from Knoxville High School in 1963 where he played baseball and basketball. Bob was the first player to make a basket in Jensen Gymnasium after it was built. He then went to Illinois Wesleyan University where he was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity and played basketball and graduated in 1967. He went on to receive his Master of Arts in History at Western Illinois University, graduating in 1991. Bob first taught in Neponset, IL and then spent 25 of his 38 year career at Spoon River Valley, retiring in 2005. Bob coached multiple sports during his teaching career. After retirement Bob enjoyed being a substitute teacher at Knoxville and Williamsfield. Bob also spent many years as an adjunct professor at Carl Sandburg College. Bob enjoyed being outdoors. He was a longtime member of the Knoxville Hunting Club and enjoyed fishing. Bob was an avid LA Dodgers fan. His greatest joy was his five grandsons; he enjoyed spending time with them and watching them at their sporting events. The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during Bob’s illness. Cremation rights will be accorded. Visitation will be 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, November 18, 2018 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home with Deacon Michael Crummer officiating. Private burial will be in East Midway Cemetery, London Mills, IL. Memorials may be made to OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois.