Robert Donald St. Marie

On Saturday, August 10, 2024, Robert Donald St. Marie, Sr., of Nashville, TN (but proud Chicagoan), passed away at the age of 87 years.

Bob was born on November 26, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois. After attending St. Patrick’s High School, Bob enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1956, proudly served his country, and was honorably discharged. Bob went on to become a Chicago Police Officer, retiring after 35 years. Highlights of his career included his early days in the Shakespeare District, working the infamous 1968 Democratic Convention, and stationed for many years at O’Hare International Airport, where he earned many honorable mentions and recognition for his dedicated service to the City of Chicago.

Bob will be remembered by his friends and family as a gregarious jokester, always one to be the life of the party. In his younger days, he enjoyed playing softball, bowling and golf; and he cheered on his Chicago Cubbies and Bears (while also supporting the San Francisco 49ers and New Orleans Saints so he could enjoy watching some winning teams from time-to-time). Upon retirement, Bob moved to Apple Canyon Lake in northwestern Illinois, where he quickly found himself a new social circle managing the rural community’s pro shop, bar & grill. Bob and his family also spent time in Woodstock, IL before relocating to Nashville, TN in 2017. Dedicated to his family, he also loved (in no particular order): Frank Sinatra, Dewar’s White Label Scotch Whiskey, Italian food (notably pasta, Chicago-style THIN crust pizza, baked goods).

Bob is survived by his wife of 36 years, Valerie; his children: Denise (Phillip) Hayes, Madelyn (Lawrence) Sei, Dianna Leo, Robert St. Marie Jr., Sheri (David) Grochocki, Eric Campbell, Jaclyn (Seth) Seaton, and Shannon St. Marie; his grandchildren: Lauren Costa, David Costa, Carissa (Devin) Burgess, Adrienne (Joshua) Dymacek, Joseph Sei, Benjamin Leo, Alexandria St. Marie, Angelina St. Marie, David Grochocki, Abbie Grochocki, Chelsea Grochocki, Katherine Campbell, Wyatt Seaton, and his great-grandchildren: Luca Esparza, Matteo Esparza, and Guiliana Dymacek. He is remembered fondly by his supportive sister Marianne (Thomas) Fleming, and his nieces and nephews, Scot (Tara) Calabrese, JD (Jessica) Bacon, Danielle (Daniel) Weinmeier, Antonio Calabrese, Giovanni Calabrese, Catarina Calabrese, Gabriella Amen.

He was predeceased by his loving parents, Rocco and Marie St. Marie; and brothers, Joseph St. Marie and Daniel St. Marie.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 10:30 AM at All Saints Cemetery (700 N River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Place Nashville, 749 Georgetown Dr, Nashville, TN 37205.