Robert “Bob” Andrini

October 8, 1943 - November 6, 2025

Robert “Bob” Andrini, a lifelong member of the St. Charles community and a devout member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on November 6th , 2025. He was a man of quiet strength and unwavering dedication to sharing the wonders of the natural world with others. His involvements and accomplishments were as vast as the skies he loved to watch. He was born October 8th, 1943 to Attilio and Matilda Andrini. Bob met Kathleen “Kathy” Kopacz, the love of his life, in 1963. She was his bride for 54 years and they were blessed with three children, Anthony, Gerilyn and Joy. Three grandchildren followed who were his greatest treasure. Bob spent his life rooted in the Fox Valley, where he cultivated a love for birds, conservation, and community service. As gifted educator, he inspired generations of students and nature enthusiasts through his work as a biology teacher and as a respected naturalist. His enthusiasm was contagious—whether leading a birding walk at dawn or giving a talk at a local nature center, Bob had a way of making the birding world come to life. Even after 33 years of teaching at Addison Trail High School, he continued educating through park district programs and within school districts. Bob was a longtime member of the Kane County Audubon Society and served as president from 1996 to 2019. His keen eye, knowledge, and gentle encouragement made him a beloved figure in birding circles. In 2020, Bob was named an Illinois Audubon Society Hero, a distinction reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to conservation and education across the state. He was recognized with the naming of a hiking trail and commemorative bench at Hickory Knolls Natural Area in St. Charles, honoring both Bob and Kathy, for their years of volunteerism and passion for birding and educating. He is survived by his loving family, who carry forward his legacy of kindness and passion for nature; his children, Anthony Andrini, Gerilyn (Russell) Benning and Joy (Samuel) Wilson and his three grandchildren, Riley Benning, Elijah and Isaac Wilson, his Sisters-In-Law Donna Andrini, Caroline Andrini and Brother-In-Law Thomas (Linda) Kopacz and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathleen Kopacz Andrini, his brothers Bernard and Ralph Andrini and their parents. Bob’s life was a testament to lifelong learning and the joy of sharing one’s passions. His mentorship shaped the careers of many young naturalists and his legacy lives on in the thriving birding community he helped build. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 11th from 3-8pm at Yurs Funeral Home, 405 East Main Street, St. Charles.  Funeral mass on 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, November 12th at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 2900 East Main Street, St. Charles. Donations can be made to the Illinois Audubon Society or Feed My Staving Children.  Guest BookShareEmailPrint