Rock Island Today

State Rep. Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) recently offered her condolences to the family of former Illinois Congressman Robert "Bobby" Schilling, a lawmaker that she noted "never let hurdles of any size stand in his way."

"We are saddened to hear the death of Congressman Schilling," McCombie said in the April 21 Illinois House GOP video. 

Schilling, who passed away on April 6 at the age of 57, first served as the representative for Illinois' 17th congressional district from 2011 to 2013. Schilling ran for office again in 2020 but lost. 

"As a member of the U.S. Congress, Bobby worked across the aisle to meet the needs of his district," McCombie said. "He prioritized the rebuilding of the I-74 bridge which is still in process today. He worked with Democrat colleagues to secure key provisions to help the Rock Island Arsenal in the National Defense Authorization Act." 

Schilling was raised in Rock Island in a poor household. He did not attend college, but worked as a union steward, insurance agent and financial planner before pursuing office. Schilling cofounded St. Giuseppe's Heavenly Pizza in 1996.

"Bobby was deeply committed to his Catholic faith and throughout his battle with cancer he remained grateful to God for the life he was given," McCombie said. "Bobby loved his family and he dedicated his life to them."

According to Schilling's obituary, memorials in his memory can be donated to the Women's Choice Center in Bettendorf, Iowa, or the Pregnancy Center in Clinton, Iowa. 

McCombie said that Schilling was a legislator that loved overcoming challenges and loved America. Last week state Senator Neil Anderson also delivered a tribute to the former congressman.