Robert "Bob" Polanowski, 74, passed away on July 15, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois. Born October 17, 1951, to Adam and Victoria (Andrejewski) Polanowski, Bob grew up in Escanaba, Michigan, before his family settled in Mount Prospect, Illinois.

On September 15, 1973, he married the love of his life, Judith Schrader, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned nearly 53 years. Bob was a proud lifetime member of Operating Engineers Local 150, dedicating 39 years to his profession before retiring in 2007.

Known for his intelligence, wit, and ability to fix just about anything, Bob freely shared his knowledge, humor, and practical wisdom with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, archery, the outdoors, and telling stories, and was a longtime member of the former Wheeling Archery Club.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his wife Judi; their son Kyle (Amy); grandchildren Christian (Lillian), Dayne (Alyssa), Kade, Braya and Griffyn “Fynn,” and a great grandchild on the way; his siblings Sandy Hallberg, Larry (Judy) Polanowski, Jane Pappenburg; Jerry (Cheryl) Polanowski, and Maryann “Mabel” (Larry) Yeager and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and brother-in-law, Tom Hallberg.

Cremation rites were accorded to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com