Bobby John Ewell

Bob "Bobby" John Ewell, 87, passed into eternity on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, Illinois, following a brief illness. Bob was born May 27, 1938, in Harrisburs, Illinois to Elijah Ewell and Vera (Walker) Phelps, and was raised by his mother and stepfather, Millard Phelps.

Bob married Paula Arlene Jones on January 27, 1968, and she preceded him in death in October 2017. Bob is survived by sons, Jeffery Ewell of Arkansas, step son, Shane (Tish) Foley, and Jason Ewell of Danville; daughter, Laurie (Mike) Riley of Oklahoma; grandsons, Sean and Shane Jr. Foley; step grandsons, Darrin Blakeney, Aaron and Cameron Alrich and Jordyn Ewell; sisters, Phyllis Veach of Maroa, Illinois and Linda Murphy of Tilton, Illinois; and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Bob was preceded in death by his grandson, Rob Foley; brother, Larry Phelps; and sister, Mallie White. 

Following high school, Bob joined the United States Marine Corps in 1958. He was a Marine Drill Instructor at MCRD, and San Diego, California, serving tours of duty in Okinawa, Japan and Vietnam, where he received his purple heart. Bob worked at Lauhoff/Bungee Grain, retiring from the bean plant. In retirement, Bob was the coordinator for the Danville Township Senior Transportation Program. He loved sports and was an avid golfer and bowler, playing at many of the golf courses and tournaments across the United States. He was a a passionate St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Bears fan and loved to travel and to eat at great restaurants. And, oh, how he loved a good argument! 

Bob will be sadly missed by his family and his many friends, especially Mike West, Bobby Cook and Kenny Pasco. 

A memorial visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Noon on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the VA Protestant Chapel, 1900 E. Main St. Danville, IL, with a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. Noon followed by military honors by the American Legion Post 210.

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