Funeral Details

Robert (Bob) Howard Marks, 94 of Vernon Hills, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his residence on November 10, 2025. Bob was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Ilene (nee Kirman), and is survived by his four children: Michael, Fred (Mary), Lynn, and Hara (Ilya Fuksman) Marks. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Leah (Connor), Daniel (Michelle), Emily, Alexander, Isaac, Layla, and Aaron, and one great grandson, Jacob. Bob was born to the late Albert and Dorothy Marks on January 16, 1931 in Chicago, IL. He attended Von Steuben High School in Chicago and then studied business and insurance at Wright College. Bob met his future wife, Ilene, on the El. They were married shortly after and moved to Evanston where together they raised their family. They enjoyed live music and theater, and driving trips with their kids. A resident of Chicago and Evanston for most of his life, Bob worked to support his family as an insurance agent and teacher for over 50 years. He was a loving, devoted family man. His passions were his family and his many friends, jazz music, and reading, particularly books about the Mafia, or, as he called it, “The Outfit.” He was also a loyal Cubs fan and he enthusiastically cheered them on during their 2016 championship season. Bob was very sociable; he loved to talk with people and loved bragging about the achievements of his family. Ever the teacher, Bob organized and taught a Yiddish class for several years. And he was an avid pool player (very hard to beat)! He found great joy in playing his saxophone with a small group of other amateur musicians in diverse settings, from entertaining residents of a mental healthcare facility in Evanston, to patrons of a Chinese restaurant in Chicago, to practicing in one of the band member's house. Several years ago Bob was lucky enough to meet Sharon Salyers, who became his girlfriend. Not only did they establish a loving relationship, but Bob became a member of Sharon’s family as well. Bob lived to be over 94 and still he died too young. Our heartfelt belief is that he is still with us, having just entered another phase. We can picture him playing his saxophone, smiling and watching over his family. His charm, generosity and great devotion to his family will be missed by all who knew and loved him. And everyone who knew him loved him. Service Wednesday 12:30 PM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd (at Niles Center Road) Skokie. Interment Ridgelawn B’nai Zion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ravinia Reach Teach Play Program, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, Illinois 60035, www.ravinia.org. To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com