Robert 'Bobby' Heape of Du Quoin

DU QUOIN - Robert Loren "Bobby" Heape, 76, of Du Quoin, passed away peacefully at 2:52 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018 at the Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin surrounded by his family.

Bobby worked at Captain Mine from its opening day until its closing day. He mostly ran heavy equipment, including the world's largest shovel, the Marion 6360. Bobby retired in 2001. He was a member of the Sunfield United Methodist Church and United Methodist Men.

Bobby was a 50-year member of the Du Quoin Masonic Lodge. He also was a member of the UMW of A and Perry County Farm Bureau. Bobby was a devoted husband, dad and grandpa and a friend to many. He enjoyed farming, raising sweet corn, hunting quail and mushrooms, fishing and following his grandchildren's activities. Bobby shared his garden goods with many. He loved his bird dogs, especially Ellie Mae.

He was born Dec. 20, 1941 in Du Quoin, the son of Loren G. and Minnie (Bishop) Heape.

He married Sharon Kay Miller on Nov. 25, 1961 at the Sunfield United Methodist Church, and she survives.

Bobby is survived by his wife of Du Quoin; one son, Todd (Susan) Heape of Du Quoin; two daughters, Susan (Ted) Harsha and Jill (Steve) Marek, all of Du Quoin; one sister, Lucille (Dennis) Woodside of Pinckneyville; three brothers, Phillip (Carole) Heape of Du Quoin, John (Cindy) Heape of Tamaroa and Carroll (Karen) Heape of Tamaroa; five grandchildren, Jennifer Breyman, Dillon Heape, Alexander (Taylor) Heape, Hadley (Craig) Kuhnert and Hannah Marek; two great-grandchildren, Beau and Callie Breyman; as well as nieces, nephews and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, George and Louise Miller; and a niece and a nephew.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7 at the Sunfield United Methodist Church with the Rev. Bill Wiggs officiating.

Friends may call from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Wednesday at the church.

Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin.

Friends may make memorials to the Sunfield United Methodist Church Building Fund or the Alzheimer's Association. These will be accepted at the funeral home.

Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.

For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.