Robert H. "Bob" Nielsen, 78 of Paxton died at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, 2020, at his home.

A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 14, 2020 at the Christian Bible Church, 1202 E 200 North Road, Cissna Park with Pastor Joshua Benner officiating. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.

A visitation will be one hour prior to the service Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at the church.

Robert was born October 7, 1941 in Chicago the son of Carl A. and Verna Ollila Nielsen. He married Ellen "Ellie" Marshall April 24, 1971 in Chicago. She survives.

Along with his wife, Ellie, he is survived by a son, Peter (Lisa) Barsema of Streator; a daughter Maria (Ralph) Barsema of New Zealand; step son, John Scott (Kathy) Chernisky of Hastings, MN; step daughter, Heidi (Zeke) Johnson of Dennison, TX; four grandchildren, Keith Barsema, Nicholas and Andy Chernisky, Skye Blu Johnson; numerous nieces and nephews and a special friend, Maureen Lane.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Dolores Keeton and Shirley Ciric.

Bob graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1959. He was a service manager for Pitney-Bowes retiring after 24 years. Upon moving from Chicago to Paxton in 2001 he was a home inspector.

He was associated with the Christian Bible Church, Cissna Park and a member of the Ford County Historical Society where he had also served on the board. Bob was a former member of the Royal Order of Moose and Society of Home Inspectors.

His hobbies included woodworking and billiards.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor's choice. Condolences may be offered at www.baierfuneralservices.com.