Robert "Bob/Bomba" D. Braden

Robert “Bob/Bomba” D. Braden, 69, of Kewanee, of passed away Friday, June 6, 2025, at Winning Wheels Rehab Center, Prophetstown. Bob was born September 6, 1955, in Kewanee, the son of Walter and Willa (Kelly) Braden. Bob graduated from Kewanee High School with the class of 1973. He attended Illinois Central College, GM Training in Chicago, and was a certified mechanic. Bob married Jann Schultz on March 31, 2000; she survives.

Bob is also survived by sister-in-law, Carol O’Brien, Kewanee; nephew, Chris Bishop, Geneseo; and his beloved cats, Shadow, Jack, and Tiger. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Bob drove a school bus for the Kewanee School District, retiring in 2024. Bob was a semi-truck driver; during his younger years he was self-employed as a mechanic. Bob was an avid NASCAR fan, he was especially a fan of Dale Ernhardt, Sr. He enjoyed attending dirt track races all over the area. He also enjoyed camping and hanging out with friends at the bar. Bob was always up for any shenanigans. Bob was a member of the Moose, Flemish American Club, and the First Baptist Church, Geneseo.

Per Bob’s wishes cremation will be accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Guppy's Lake. Burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Henry County Humane Society, Kewanee. Online condolences for Bob’s family may be left at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.

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