CHAMPAIGN – Clarence Herbert Alley, 73, left this earth to be with the Lord on Thursday (Nov. 26, 2015). Clarence (aka Bob) Alley, son of James Nelson Alley and Emma Spears Harris (Wallace), was born Oct. 10, 1942, in Cincinnati.
He leaves his wife of 37 years, Ann Leonard Alley of Champaign; four children, Stacey Sohn (Chuck) of Chanhassen, Minn., Heather Ketchem (Joe) of St. Joseph, Philip Alley of Asheville, N.C., and Emily Yarger (Dan) of Champaign; one brother, Robert Harris (Brenda), Jacksonville, Fla.; three sisters, Barbara Winchester (Leonard) of St. Joseph, Julitta Allen of Longview and Lisa Redden (Jake) of St. Joseph; and four grandchildren, Hannah Hilton, Josh Hilton, Henry Sohn and Phoebe Sohn. He also leaves behind beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, his mother and stepfather, Wallace Harris, and one sister, Joyce Alley Spurlock (Lewis T).
After high school, Bob served 4½ years in the U.S. Marine Corps (1962-66), a fact that he was very proud of.
Bob, whose last educational degree was a Ph.D. in public administration, retired from the University of Illinois in December 2003. After retirement, Bob spent his time volunteering at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, playing the guitar, having regular breakfast meetings with good friends and spending time with the family.
Bob got interested in music at a young age, participating in Sunday hootenannies with his family. He loved classic rock and old country. He played lead guitar in a number of bands over the years, his last band being NTL (Never Too Late) where he played with his cousin, David Spears. He was also able to play a few gigs with his son, Phil, who is now a musician in Asheville, N.C.
Before his retirement, Bob was an avid bike rider. His partner in this was his beloved brother-in-law, Russ Leonard. They did many distance rides together, mainly in Michigan.
Bob was a member of St. Christopher Episcopal Church, Rantoul. He served as Bishop's Warden for many years and was in charge of the music program.
Bob (the Batman) Alley was a devoted husband and father, and he will be missed by all who knew him. Semper Fi, buddy!
A celebration of his life will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, at St. Christopher Episcopal Church, 1501 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul. Lux Funeral Home, Rantoul, is in charge of the arrangements.
Memorials may be sent to St. Christopher Church, 1501 E. Grove, Rantoul, IL 61866.
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