Robert F. Broz, 83, died peacefully on July 18, 2026. He was a lifelong resident of Riverside, a community he loved and proudly called home. The son of the late Robert Walter Broz and Florence Broz (née Peck), he grew up in Riverside and graduated from Riverside-Brookfield High School, class of 1960.
He spent nearly four decades at WGN Radio in Chicago as a broadcast engineer, where his dedication, technical expertise, and steady professionalism helped keep Chicago’s iconic radio station on the air. He enjoyed working alongside many of Chicago’s legendary broadcasters, including Wally Phillips, Bob Collins, Spike O’Dell, Kathy O’Malley, and Judy Markey.
Though his career was behind the scenes, his personality occasionally brought him in front of the microphone. Bob Collins, Spike O’Dell, and other WGN hosts would go out of their way to invite him into their conversations, where his quick wit and dry humor became a welcome part of many of Chicago’s popular radio broadcasts.
Bob is survived by his son, Robert “Bob” Broz, and daughter-in-law, Ruth Broz; his daughter, Laura Broz Devore; his granddaughters, Elizabeth Devore, Allison Broz, and Claire Broz; and his sister, Nancy Wojteczko (née Broz).
Though he preferred to stay out of the spotlight, his warmth, integrity, and silly sense of humor made a lasting impression. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless memories shared.
Private services will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association in Bob’s memory.