Robert Wayne Ulrich

Robert Wayne Ulrich, 79, of Sumner, Illinois, was born on January 12, 1947, and passed away peacefully at his home on February 6, 2026.

Robert was a man of faith, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and veteran. He was married to the love of his life, Nancy (Blank) Ulrich, on November 3, 1984—a marriage marked by deep love, loyalty, and devotion.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Ulrich; his children: Jennifer (Lance) Grimes of St. Francisville, IL, and their daughters McKinlee and Whitley; Chris (Katie) Ulrich of Gilbert, AZ, and their daughter Lily; John Robert (Jessica) Ulrich of Glen Carbon, IL, and their daughters Breayleah (Dan), Brenna (Dylan), and Haley; Dawn (Demetrius) Price of Mascoutah, IL, and their children Vincent, Alli, Sam, and Jay; and Tonia Waters of Virginia Beach, VA, and her children Justin and Brittanny. Robert was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his brothers, Lynn (Betsy) Ulrich of Sumner, IL, Mark (Barb) Ulrich of Del Norte, CO, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Genelle Ulrich; his brother, Larry Ulrich; and his sister, Glenda Allen.

Robert was a faithful member of New Hope Christian Church in Bridgeport, Illinois, where his faith guided his life and relationships.

A proud patriot, Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force on May 20, 1966, serving his country with honor for 20 years, including service in the Vietnam War. He retired from military service on May 31, 1986. He continued his life of service working with the Department of Veterans Affairs, followed by 20 years with the State of Illinois Department of Human Services, retiring in 2007.

Robert was a devoted fan of his alma mater, the University of Oklahoma, and never missed a chance to watch their football and basketball games. He loved watching westerns, spending time outdoors mowing, and especially enjoyed fishing with his family. He never missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren, faithfully attending their sporting events and school activities.

In October 2022, Robert took an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. with his daughter Jennifer—a moment that was deeply meaningful and cherished by both.

Known for his great sense of humor, Robert could always be counted on for a joke, no matter the circumstance. He will be remembered for his love, compassion, faith, grace, and laughter, and for the way he made everyone feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.

Robert Wayne Ulrich leaves behind a legacy of service, devotion, faith, and family that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 2:00 at New Hope Christian Church at 10186 Bridgeport Road in Bridgeport, Illinois. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the church. Burial will be in Sumner Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in Robert’s honor to the New Hope Christian Church Youth Group.