Former Fox Lake zoning board veteran dies

Longtime Fox Lake resident Bob Irwin is remembered for his love of family and community involvement.

Irwin, 80, was surrounded by 23 family members when he died after a lengthy illness Sunday at Centegra Northern Illinois Medical Center in McHenry. Survivors include his wife, former Fox Lake mayor Cindy Irwin.

One of the great memories from last year, Cindy Irwin said, was her husband’s 80th birthday party that drew more than 200 well-wishers.

“He loved his family and he loved his friends,” she said. “And I don’t know what else to say. The family is just grateful we had him for 80 years.”

Cindy Irwin said she married her husband 40 years ago in what was the Lake County version of the “Brady Bunch.” He brought four daughters into the marriage, while she had two boys and a girl.

Bob Irwin was involved in politics in Fox Lake, Grant Township and with the Lake County Republicans. The Bears and White Sox fan served about 20 years on Fox Lake’s zoning board and was known to attend a variety of community events.

Cindy Irwin said she wasn’t even registered to vote until she met her husband.

“He got me into politics, absolutely,” she said.

Son-in-law Jack Kiesgen, a former Fox Lake village trustee, said Bob Irwin simply was a good guy.

“Bob was one of the nicest people you could ever talk to,” Kiesgen said. “Always a gentleman and very respectful to women.”

Along with his wife and the seven children, Bob Irwin is survived by eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.