Robert J. Bilyeu

Robert J. Bilyeu, 60, of Clarion, formerly of Thompson, passed away Friday, August 12, 2011 at the Wright Medical Center in Clarion.

Memorial services for Robert Bilyeu will be held on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at 1:30 PM at Ewing Funeral Home, 602 North Main Street, in Clarion with Father Nils Hernandez officiating.  Burial will be held at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Algona at 4:00 PM.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the funeral home.

Robert John Bilyeu was born January 1, 1951 in Algona, Iowa to Milton and Jean (Putzstuck) Bilyeu.  Robert attended Bishop Garrigan high school in Algona and graduated in 1969.

Upon graduation, Robert enlisted in the United States Navy.

Following his discharge from the Navy, Robert worked a variety of jobs for Hormel, Snap On, and at Sieg’s Auto Parts.  Most recently, Robert worked at Winnebago Industries in Forest City.

Robert was very handy and loved to work on cars.  He also enjoyed playing cribbage, watching old war and sci-fi movies, and spending time with his family and friends.  He was a well-known storyteller.

Despite his poor health in recent years, Robert never complained and was always concerned about getting back to work as soon as possible.  He was an all-around good guy, willing to help anyone with anything.

Robert is survived by his four children, Allison (Clark) Christensen of Algona, Jason Bilyeu of Cedar Rapids, Melinda Bilyeu of Clarion, and Patrick Bilyeu of Clarion; six grandchildren, Aaron, Caleb, Nicholas, Alexis, Jersey, and Blake; his sisters Sue Becker, Kathy Benjamin, and Kris (Rick) Heintz; his brothers, Dennis Bilyeu and Bruce (Traci) Bilyeu, along with numerous other nieces and nephews, other family members, and friends.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Randy Bilyeu.