Robert "Rob" Zarrillo Obituary (1953 - 2024)

Robert Alfred Zarrillo, 70, passed away suddenly on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at his residence in Girard, IL. Robert (Rob) was born on April 29, 1953, in Lakewood, NJ, and is preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Marion Carmona Zarrillo. After graduating from college with bachelor’s degrees in both Biology and History, Rob continued his studies to acquire a master’s degree in History and a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. He began his professional career at Texas Instruments in Dallas, TX, and later retired as a Senior Manager from Northrop Grumman in Chicago, IL. Rob connected with his true passion when he became a Professor of History, specializing in Ancient and World History, at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield, IL, where he continued teaching until his death. Rob married his sweetheart, Bonnie Rohe, on July 30, 1977, in North Miami Beach, FL. Their son, Ryan (30), born on November 12, 1993, completed their family. Rob was a loving husband and father. In addition to his wife Bonnie and son Ryan, who currently resides in AZ, Rob is survived by his brother, Michael (wife Catherine) Zarrillo, residing in NM, and Joan Swackhammer, his cousin who was like a sister, currently residing in FL. He also leaves behind his four beloved Welsh Springer Spaniels: Ginger, Desi, Gabby, and Duncan. In addition to being a devoted Cardinal fan, Rob was an avid collector of ancient coins and an authenticator of celebrity autographs. He and his brother Michael grew up in North Miami Beach, FL, where, during their teen years, they organized and oversaw early comic book conventions. To the surprise of their parents, these endeavors evolved into some of the earliest Star Trek Conventions in the country, expanding to the national level throughout the 1970s. Rob was an active member of the Knights of Columbus 2321 Council in Virden, IL, and held the office of Deputy Grand Knight at the time of his passing and was also a 4th Degree Knight . Utilizing his experience and knowledge in running conventions, Rob started and oversaw the Virden 4th Sunday Market. Both Rob and Bonnie were members of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Virden, IL. Rob will be greatly missed but will remain forever in our hearts. No celebration of life is scheduled at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Knights of Columbus 2321 or Welsh Springer Spaniels of America.