James "Bob" Poland

James Robert “Bob” Poland, of Mattoon, IL, peacefully passed away at his home, Saturday, January 20, 2018. The graveside service in his honor will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, January 27, 2018 at Zion Hill Cemetery in Mattoon, IL, with Reverend Kevin Wolfe officiating. The visitation will be held Friday, January 26, 2018, from 4:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M. at Broadway Christian Church, 1205 S. 9th St., Mattoon, IL 61938. Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Bob was born January 8, 1936, in his great grandmother’s home, the son of Howard and Helen (Gramblin) Poland. He married Linda Tate on November 17, 1956 in Mississippi. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Linda Poland; three children, Scott (Karin) Poland, Richard (Peggy) Poland, and Tracy(Matt) Burgess; ten grandchildren, Tabitha (Jon), Shonna(Alfred), Tyler(Stephanie), Ravin, Alec, Heather (Ben), Jamie (Doug), Brenda (Brian), Cameron, and Trevor; and twelve great-grandchildren with another on the way. Bob is preceded in death by his parents and one great-granddaughter. Bob was an active member of Broadway Christian Church for over sixty years. He cherished his memories as a former 5th grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary School in Mattoon, IL. Bob was later employed at Kal Kan, INC. until his retirement, valuing the friendships he made throughout the years. He enjoyed the outdoors, rock hunting, fishing, bicycle riding, bird-watching, estate sales and caring for his beloved rescue cat, Millie. He loved rooting for his children and grandchildren at their track meets, baseball, basketball, soccer games. Bob was a great neighbor and never met a stranger. The family would like to thank Dr. Brazill, Carle Hospice, and their Essex cul-de-sac neighbors for their constant care and kindness. Memorials in his honor may be made to Carle Hospice, 611 W. Park Street, Urbana, IL 61801, or Broadway Christian Church, 1205 S. 9th Street, Mattoon, IL 61938. Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a virtual candle in his honor or share a memory with the family.

Tributes

James "Bob" Poland

January 8, 1936 - January 20, 2018