Elmwood Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Visitation Information

Robert J. Hafer

Passed away on April 7, 2026


Robert “Bob” Hafer, born November 12, 1941 in Pennsylvania, will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend. He was the beloved husband of Gloria Hafer (née Dattulo), proud father to Jeanette Hafer (Michael Johnson) and Robert E. Hafer and “Grandpa” to Kaydence Miller and Isabella Hafer.

He is also survived by his brothers, John Hafer (Donna) and James Hafer (Karen). He was a devoted uncle to many nieces and nephews and was affectionately known as “Uncle Bob” by both family and friends throughout the community.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer Hafer; his mother, Anna Mae Hafer (née Sylvester); and his sister, Barbara Hafer. Bob proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1963, carrying that sense of duty and quiet strength throughout his life. Following his military service, he dedicated his career to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, retiring as an Executive Assistant where he was respected for his leadership, fairness, and commitment to others.

An outdoorsman at heart, Bob found peace in fishing and hunting and was a proud member of the Southeast Sportsman’s Club. He appreciated the simple things in life—time outdoors, good stories over a cold beer, and time spent with family.

Bob will be remembered for his strength, his steady presence, and the brilliant love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the lives he touched, and the family who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Funeral Service:
Elmwood Chapel
11200 S. Ewing Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60617
Saturday, April 11, 2026 - 12:00 pm

Interment:
Cemetery Private

Visitation Location

East Side
11200 S. Ewing Ave
Chicago, IL 60617
(773) 731-2749

Map


Visitation Information

Friday, April 10, 2026 - 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 11, 2026 - 11:00 am until 12:00 pm

Condolences
"My Condolences to you All. Bob was a good man. "
- Denise Maggio
April 8, 2026 2:54 pm

" we were so very sorry to hear of Bob's death Great guy So sorry Gloria"
- Jim and Janice Lotito
April 8, 2026 4:08 pm

"My condolences, Bob was a stand up guy, may he rest in peace."
- Rich Wolff
April 8, 2026 4:18 pm

"I'm so sorry may Bob rest in God's Heavenly peace My Prayers are with you and your family"
- Shirley carchedi
April 9, 2026 10:15 am

"Bob was a great mentor to me and a great person to work with. I learned a lot from him and I always enjoyed the twinkle in his eye when he asked you a question that he already knew the answer to! RIP Bob. "
- Mark A CUNNEEN
April 9, 2026 11:06 am

"A true Sportsman and a great guy, I will always have great memories of him."
- Steve Weber
April 9, 2026 2:40 pm

"Dan and I are so sorry for your loss. Even though I never met your dad, he sounds like a very loving and funny guy. Our sincere condolences to you, your mother and family. He’s in the big ocean sailing with other sailors gone before us"
- Ellen Stehly
April 10, 2026 8:26 am

"To our friend and neighbor Bob, you will be missed but I know you are at peace with the grace of Jesus in heaven with all the good souls. May God comfort the Hafer family."
- James Francis
April 10, 2026 10:10 am

"RIP Lt. Hafer and condolences to the Hafer family."
- Jerry Graber
April 11, 2026 9:03 am

"My condolences to Gloria and family. I had the pleasure of meeting Bob in the early seventies when I was working at the South Chicago YMCA. From my first encounter, I saw a good guy. Years later, we became family through marriage, and always, he was that same good guy. I will cherish the moments we shared. May the love of those around you and your faith in God bring you comfort in your time of sorrow. "
- Al Reyes
April 11, 2026 3:00 pm

"I am very sorry for your and your family's loss of "Uncle" Bob. He was a lot of fun when he'd come to your classes at the senior center. He seemed to always be smiling and laughing by your side. He will surely be missed by many. I am thinking of you during this difficult time and pray you find solace in the many happy memories you have of Bob. "
- Julie A. Slawniak
April 15, 2026 2:05 pm

"Sending my deepest sympathies to all his family. Bob was a great man and Im glad I got to know him at the Sportsmens Club. He will be missed. xoxoxoxox"
- Jennifer Indicavitch
April 22, 2026 2:03 pm

Candles Lit
"You will be missed by so many "
- Shannon
April 10, 2026 9:09 am

"Our deepest sympathy..prayer...lohwrve...to the Hafer family. Cherish your memories 💙"
- Anne Snyder Elliott
April 10, 2026 12:50 pm

"May you rest in eternal peace love and praying for the family."
- Nancy Mejia
April 11, 2026 3:51 am

"This candle burns in loving memory of Bob who is not here today, but is forever in your hearts."
- Al Reyes
April 11, 2026 3:53 pm