Dennis Roby, born May 28, 1937 in DeGraff, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2024, at Hickory Point Christian Village in Forsyth, Illinois.
Funeral service will be noon Saturday, January 20, at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur. The family would like to welcome friends to a visitation from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Boiling Springs Cemetery in Decatur, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dennis’ honor may be directed to New Life Pregnancy Center in Decatur.
Dennis attended Manchester University in Indiana to study civil engineering. It was there that he met Phyllis Ingram, and they were married on September 12, 1959.
Spanning over six decades they built a life centered around their shared values and the love they had for their children and grandchildren. Building on his math/science degree from Manchester College, Dennis completed his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at Purdue University in 1960, followed by a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering in 1961. He then embarked on a successful career, starting in 1961 with Chicago Bridge and Iron Company.
In 1965, the family moved to Warrensburg, IL, and Dennis worked as a soil engineering consultant responsible for engineering analysis of foundations and special structures.
Dennis started his own engineering practice working from his home in 1967. Moving to Decatur, his business grew, and in 1978, Dennis E. Roby & Associates opened its doors at 1900 East Eldorado Street, becoming a reputable firm known for its excellence in civil and structural engineering. Through the years Dennis served an active role as a member of numerous professional engineering organizations, such as ACI, AISC, NSPE, PEPP, and ACEC.
In 1991, Dennis sold his business to ADM and transitioned to ADM Design Services, where he continued to contribute his expertise, managing the in-house civil and structural design division until his retirement. As a longtime supportive alumnae of Purdue University, one of the more meaningful acknowledgements in his career was in December 1994 when Dennis was recognized by the Purdue University Chapter of Chi Epsilon by elevating him to the position of Chapter Honor Member.
Throughout his nearly 40-year career as a Professional Engineer and Structural Engineer in the state of Illinois, Dennis showcased his expertise in investigating grain dust explosions and failures of grain storage facilities. He was a registered Professional Engineer in 24 states and traveled internationally for private consulting business and his plant design work with ADM.
However, Dennis derived the greatest depth of meaning and purpose in his life from his faith and his dedication to serving his church community. Born and raised in the Church of the Brethren, he held a deep love and trust in the Scriptures. Dennis had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
For 20 years, Dennis and Phyllis were devoted and active members of the Warrensburg United Methodist Church. As their journey continued, they transitioned their membership to Riverside Baptist Church in Decatur. Dennis’s faith was not confined within the walls of a church; it guided his interactions with others, manifesting in his genuine care, kindness, and unwavering support.
Dennis is survived by his wife Phyllis, his son Brock (Anne) Roby, and his daughter Tara Roby. His presence and love will be deeply missed but forever treasured by his six grandchildren: Barrett Roby, Nick Roby, Madison Hardt, Paige Hardt, Camile Hardt, and Sophie Hardt. He delighted in their accomplishments and took joy in being a part of their lives.
Dennis Roby’s life was a testament to love, family, professional excellence, and steadfast faith. While we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, we also celebrate the countless lives Dennis touched, the lasting impact he made, and the enduring love he shared with his family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Marjorie (Mohr) and his sister Janet (Crosswhite).
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes at www.brintlingerandearl.com.
