John H. “Chopper” Robke, age 61 of Carlyle, passed away at his home on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
John was born in Breese, Illinois on March 29, 1965, a son of Gene J. and Martha A. (nee Holthaus) Robke. John had a lifelong love of music that began when he purchased his first guitar in the eighth grade. Over the years, he shared his passion for music with others while performing with several local bands, including The Golden Tones, Dead Ringer, the FN Band, Great Googely Moogely, and the 9th Street Band. A graduate of Carlyle Grade School, Mater Dei High School, and Southern Illinois University Carbondale, John worked for many years as an electrical technician with Basler Electric. Known for his quiet nature, gentle spirit, and thoughtful heart, he was a caring son, brother, uncle and friend who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Joh is survived by his parents, Gene and Martha Robke; his siblings, Gayle Wagoner and husband Mike, Mark Robke and wife Angie, and Cheryl Loyet and husband Craig; a brother-in-law, J.K. Crutcher; his nieces and nephews, Kalen Wagoner, Justin Wagoner and wife Maggie, Brooke Wagoner, Owen Robke, Nora Robke, Olivia Loyet, Evan Loyet, Audrey Loyet, Adam Crutcher, and Nicole Crutcher; his great nephews, Sam and Judge Wagoner; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and good friends who were like family.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Lynn Crutcher; maternal grandparents, Leander and Alma Holthaus, and his paternal grandparents, Gene and Josephine Robke.
Visitation will be held at Zieren Funeral Home (1111 Clinton St. Carlyle, IL) on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM, and a memorial service will follow at 6:00 PM. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Carlyle at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, or to PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) in honor of John’s lifelong appreciation for educational and cultural programming. Memorials will be received through Zieren Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com.
