Robert D. Bosau

Robert D. Bosau, age 79, of Lake Forest, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home, on March 30, 2026. A Midwest native, born on November 28, 1946, Bob held a bachelor’s degree from Loras College and a master’s degree from Loyola University. He served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1971 and was honorably discharged after serving a tour in Vietnam where he received several commendations and medals. Bob joined the Chicago Tribune in 1971 as a personnel supervisor and advanced through various key leadership positions throughout Tribune Company, including President of Tribune Education, a position he held until his retirement in 1999. Throughout this time, Bob also served on several boards of directors. During his long career with Tribune, Bob was a friend, associate, mentor, and leader to many, known for his strong business acumen, work ethic, loyalty, and integrity. While Bob had many professional accomplishments, he came from humble beginnings and remained a modest and unassuming person his entire life. He was an avid learner and reader, history and finance enthusiast, and a real gentleman, with a wonderful sense of humor. Above all, Bob’s greatest joy was family and his love for them was deep, enduring, and selfless. A true patriarch, he built a legacy of love, with his family at the center. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who delighted in every opportunity to get together. His hugs were legendary, his laugh was contagious, and he was always smiling. He expressed love not just in words, but in action, over and over again. His presence was a guiding light and his absence leaves a profound void. Having placed his faith in Jesus Christ, all who love Bob are comforted by knowing that Bob is now with Him in his eternal home. Beloved husband of Rose for 56 years; loving father of Amy (Dave) Jennings, Mike (Keely) Bosau, Karen (Patrick) Feeney, Megan (Jon) Chappell and the late Kevin Braden; proud grandfather of Grace, Bella, Charlie, Connor, Jack, Ellie, Beau, Caroline, Bobby, Tommy, William, and Elizabeth; brother of Mary (Tom) Burke, brother-in-law of Mary Ann (the late Dennis) Rygiel, and the late Fr. Peter Heidenrich; many nieces and nephews; and very dear friends. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026 at Christ Church of Lake Forest, 100 N. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045. Interment will be at Lake Forest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s honor to Christ Church (www.christchurchil.org/give) or the University of Chicago Medicine, Cancer Research (http://ucmtribute.org/Robert-Bosau).

Robert D. Bosau

November 28, 1946 - March 30, 2026