Born: October 5, 1940 - Deceased: February 28, 2024
Robert “Bob” G. Heil, 83, of Belleville, IL, peacefully passed away February 28, 2024 with his loving family at his side at Belleville Memorial Hospital after a very brave battle with cancer.
Bob was born October 5, 1940 in St. Louis and preceded in death by his parents Robert (Bob) George and LaVerna (Bills) Heil. He is survived by his wife Sarah (Benton) Heil of Belleville, IL, his sister Barbara (Bob) Schneidewind of Indian Rocks Beach, FL, his daughters from his marriage to Judy Mortensen Heil, Julie (Mark) Staley of Springfield, IL, and Barbara (David) Hartley of St. Louis, MO, a son by marriage Ash (Michelle) Levitt, of Belleville, IL, and seven grandchildren, Jonathan, Cate, Lizzie, Charlie, Alex, Luke, and Julian.
Bob grew up in Marissa, IL. He attended the University of Illinois in Champaign, IL, and was a member of the Marching Illini and Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. He eventually transferred to St. Louis to study music. A student of the famous Stan Kann, Bob became a proficient theater organ musician at a young age, beginning to perform at various local restaurants at the age of 14. At the age of 15, he became a professional performer on the Wurlitzer theater organ at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis. During that time, he learned to tune and voice the thousands of pipes in that great Wurlitzer organ. It was the platform that taught Bob how to listen – mentally dissecting discrete tones which became so important throughout his several careers. In his early twenties Bob began designing and building various theater pipe organ installations. In the evenings Bob played organ at the Holiday Inn restaurant in St. Louis six nights a week. Heil then opened Ye Olde Music Shop, a successful professional music shop in Marissa, Illinois, which ultimately became Heil Sound.
Bob became well-known for designing the concept of modern rock and roll systems we see today. Bob designed touring sound systems for rock and roll bands such as the Grateful Dead, the Who, and many others. Bob’s career was jumpstarted when the Grateful Dead arrived in St. Louis to play the Fabulous Fox in February 1970 without a sound system. Bob provided his own sound system for the show which was such a success that the band asked Bob and his sound system to join them on the road. That led to Bob designing sound and touring with the Who on their Who’s Next tour in 1971.
Bob invented the Heil Talk Box, which was frequently used by musicians such as Peter Frampton, Joe Walsh and Richie Sambora, and is still in use today by musicians of nearly every genre. The Heil Talk Box was the first high-powered talk box on the market, which could reliably be used on high-level rock stages. The first Heil Talk Box was built for Peter Frampton’s girlfriend to give to Peter as a Christmas present in 1974. It can be heard prominently on his 1975 album, Frampton and 1976’s Comes Alive – one of the best selling live albums of all time. His work made such an impact in the rock and roll industry that Heil Sound was invited to become the only manufacturer featured in a display at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, in 2006. Some of Bob’s historically important gear, including the first modular mixing console (the Mavis), his custom quadraphonic mixer (originally used on the Quadrophenia tour), and the very first Heil Talk Box were included in the display. Bob’s work was also featured in the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis, MO.
An avid engineer, Bob proudly became an amateur radio operator at the age of 13 with the call sign K9EID. He spent much of his teen years designing and building homemade transmitters, amplifiers, and antenna systems, including his elaborate “moon bounce” antenna he used with NASA to transmit a signal to the moon and back. In the early 1980s, Bob left the pro sound industry to focus exclusively on the amateur radio market, first under the Melco brand, later returning to the Heil Sound brand, and currently under the Heil Ham Radio brand. Bob became a global innovator in the field of amateur radio, manufacturing headsets, microphones, equalizers, and accessories. Bob was very active in amateur radio giving countless presentations at hamfests and ham radio clubs, and a proud supporter of the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) and multiple youth programs for amateur radio.
Bob was a fixture in St. Louis through his “High Tech Heil” educational segments on KMOX radio plus KSDK and KTVI television. He frequently lectured at major electronic and satellite conventions, including CES and NAB shows in Las Vegas, Trebas Institute in Toronto and Blackbird Academy in Nashville. Bob recorded four albums as a musician such as Meet Me in St. Louis and Heil Plays Hammond, and also published five books on music and sound technology including Professional Drawbar Tips for the Hammond Organ, Practical Guide for Concert Sound, The 10 meter FM handbook, Heil Ham Radio Handbook, Practical Guide for Concert Sound – Volume 2, and part of the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Oral History Library.
In the late 1980s, Heil Sound entered the home theater movement becoming popular in the United States. His company became one of the first to design Custom Home theater systems with over 3,000 systems installed by 2010. Heil installed the very first DSS System, which he placed at the St. Louis office of Bob Costas. He was also on the original test team for the RCA DirecTV dish system and became one of the largest RCA dealers in the world.
In the early 2000s, following a request from Bob’s longtime friend Joe Walsh to develop a new vocal microphone, Bob re-entered the pro sound industry and introduced a new line of professional microphones and accessories, which Heil Sound continues to manufacture today. Countless Grammy-winning artists, creators, broadcasters, podcasters, sound engineers, and sound professionals continue to be influenced by Bob’s work and products.
Bob won a number of awards and honors. He was the “International Amateur Radio Operator of the Year” in 1982, an award which had been held by Barry Goldwater the year before. He was later awarded the 1989 “USA Satellite Dealer of the Year” by the Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Association in Las Vegas. In 1995, he received the very first “Live Sound Pioneer Award” at the Audio Engineering Society Convention in San Francisco. In 2007, Bob received the Audio Innovator Parnelli Award. In 2014, Bob was awarded an Honorary Doctoral Degree in Music and Technology from the University of Missouri.
In his retired years, Bob remained active in the amateur radio community by giving presentations to ham radio clubs all across the world. Bob also continued to play the Wurlitzer Organ at the Fabulous Fox Theatre and enjoyed spending time with Gracie, his malshi.
Bob was a member of Belleville Union United Methodist Church, a 50-year member of Marissa Lodge #881 AF and AM, and a 50-year member of Ainad Shrine.
His final act was one of service to others, donating his body to Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Shriners Children’s St. Louis or the ARRL’s (American Radio Relay League) Education & Technology Fund, benefiting the ARRL’s education initiatives in schools.
A private family service will be held in his memory.
77 Comments
Got to meet Bob at my first ham vention we talked for a bit and I left feeling like I met a legend thank u Bob and may you rest in peace
I met Bob in the uk at a hamfest what a lovely man so friendly Bob will never be forgotten RIP Bob
Bob Heil King of sound rest in peace my friend
Amen
So sad to hear of Bob’s passing, we had been friends since the late 70’s.
He taught me a lot when I worked for him back in Marissa..
Had the pleasure of lunch in Casey Illinois after Dayton ham convention what a down to earth and genuine person he will be missed.
Semper Fi Bob from an old Marine
Sarah,
So sorry for your loss. Your husband was quite a pioneer in several fields, WOW.
Just an aside I had a Ham license when I was in Sierra Leone. Would have loved to contact him.
Know of my prayers.
Barb
I always thought Bobby was so cool! I got to know him while babysitting Julie and Barbie in Marissa! He also gave of his time to our Marissa Ham Radio group. We were all working on our ham radio licenses. I was lucky enough to visit Ye Olde Music Shop and Heil sound. He was always fun to know and very nice to us girls. My dad loved talking t-birds with Bobby since they were both collectors. Heaven will now have a great organist for the choir of angels
So sad to hear of Bob’s passing. A true legend in so many ways. I always enjoyed talking with him each year
at the Dayton Hamvention; as I was working on setting up the recording systems for the Radio Amateur Information
Network.
I have had a chance to see his great K9EID amateur radio station; and assist Bob a couple of times.
He will be missed.
See you again one day, Bob
I’ve known Bob since the middle “60s. I hosted his “High Tech Heil” show on KMOX, and I produced a video for him that played at the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. I spoke to him last week and he assured me he was getting better.. He was a dear friend, Lodge brother, mentor, and a true gentleman. He is dearly missed.
I met Bob last year. Right away I knew he was a quality person. Bob was very enthusiastic about life.
73s my friend. Rest in Peace
Bob had hundreds if not thousands of friends and customers in the Amateur Radio world. My radio station has dozens of Heil headsets in use today!! Bob was a very warm, kind and friendly person and would talk at length about music, audio, sound systems and microphones to anyone. In the early 2000’s we used to chat on the radio regularly. It was fun meeting up with him and his friend Joe Walsh one year at the Dayton hamvention.
Bob will be sorely missed and always remembered.
RIP OM,
73,
Jim Nitzberg
Years ago at a ham radio meeting in Massachusetts, Bob gave me an autographed copy of his CD titled:
“Bob Heil “Live” — Then and Now. It was all his theater organ music.
He wrote inside the cover: Keep those Sigs IN phase … 73 Bob Heil.
Thanks so much and 73! Ted Edwards W3TB
Bob was the “Energiser”.
He went flat out all day and half the night. Emails always responded to, sometimes @2am!
I don’t think the word “Retire” was in his vocabulary 🤫.
Condolences to Sarah and the wider Heil family.
Kia Kaha
I was lucky enough to see Bob while he was doing his rehab at a facility down the street. I managed to smuggle in some candy bars which he enjoyed as a nice change of pace. I, like anyone that ever met Bob will miss him.
A wonderful man. So accomplished in music and sound. We love the fact that we witnessed his love for Sarah. You could see the way he looked at her smiling always. A love story Sarah. Gentle hugs from Ginger and Bill Bourn.
Sad to hear of Bob’s passing, he will be truly missed by all that knew him. Bob was a great friend to me and did a lot of great things for me. We kept in touch via e-mail, but the last time I seen him and was able to shake his hand was at the Winter Fest Ham Fest in Collinsville IL. I have so many of his products in my Ham Shack. He was an awesome musician and I got to visit him in his home and hear him play several times. Truly a Legend, Gods Speed Bob, I will see you when I get there.
Bob Heil was one of the nicest AND smartest men I have ever met. I had the pleasure of meeting and becoming a friend while I served as Postmaster in Marissa from 1984 – 1989. I could listen in amazement hearing Bob’s life experiences.
Rest In Peace my Ole Friend. ❤️🙏
Bob was an amazing man who touched the lives of many. I remember when we spoke when I was a guest on Ham Nation. You could tell he was a kind, patient soul who loved amateur radio and all of his hobbies. I also remember his theater organ show on WTWW when I just started my show on the same station. It was amazing how multi-talented he was. I think every ham has been touched by Bob in one way or another. His contributions to music and sound were nothing short of amazing. 73 es GL de N2RJ
i met Bob back 2009 at dayton ohio i have talk bob at ham fest i never forget that day i met my friend
Bob was always welcoming to any call on Amateur Radio, I enjoyed listening to his QSO’s. I had the pleasure to speak with him a few times on air. I know hew was a mentor to many in the Music Industry and Amateur Radio. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Very sorry to hear about Bob’s passing.
He was more than just a contributor to KMOX. He was actually part of the KMOX family.
No matter where he went, no matter who he was with, he was always the same person. Whether he was doing the sound for The Who, teaching people about technology, enjoying his ham radio friends, being on the radio, playing instruments, talking about the latest technology or giving someone a hand at his church – Bob’s feet were always planted firmly on the floor, and people from all walks of life respected for that..
When there was something that he had just learned, or he wanted to teach somebody, something, you could hear a change in the sound of his voice. I will never forget it. it was such an enthusiastic sound.
The sound just isn’t the same without him, but I’ll bet the sound system in Heaven is unbelievable! I hope I make it to the show.
God bless you, my friend.
Sad to see we lost a very talented man. Bob brought smiles, created careers, helped many and left his legacy for many to enjoy. RIP Bob
I have been over to see Bob,, many times at his music store in Marissa, IL,, over my career as a musician,, most importantly Bob,, fulfilled a long held dream of mine,, to meet and chat with Jeff Beck,, to say what Bob meant to me would take up more space than I have here,, I know this man did mean the world to so many people,, I did look up to him,, to me he was the sound of music,, I love you Bob,, God Bless you
Condolences to Bob’s family and friends. I saw him several times at Hamvention, but never got the chance to meet him, as he seemed to always be surrounded by people asking him questions. I appreciate all that he did for Amateur Radio and the music industry. He had that special way of making technical information easy to understand. K9EID from KB9WSL 73
So glad I got to have breakfast with him at the Kirkwood hamfest last october. We sat across the table from each other and I talked to him a little bit about playing the pipe organ because I am trying to learn to add the pedals to what little pipe organ playing I can do on the keyboard at our church. So sad to hear of his passing but maybe I’ll get to see him again one of these days. Dave, K9 uim
Roger Eddington and his family offers condolences to Bob’s family. I worked with Bob for many years at the shop in Marissa.
Roger? Is this you? Hey, it’s Paul Prange, Pringle from Stonewood, part of the band advance cotillion with you in the grape Gremlin. I’ve wondered about you a number of times over all these past years and wondered how you are. It’s very sad to see a way to reach you through these circumstances but I just thought I’d reach out to say hello. It was so sad to read about Bob’s passing. Although my contact with him was miniscule compared to many others, he was always gracious and supportive and was a big influence in my pursuit of rock musicianship,. which I still do today. Anyway, I saw your name on here and wanted to say hello and that I hope these past decades have been favorable to you and yours. If you’d like to catch up, you can reach me at the email below but in any regard, I wish you well and that you still are wailing away on the bass with a long coil cord and an inflatable penguin. Best wishes to you and RIP Bob.
I had the honor to be around Bob his last months. I didn’t know him or Sarah long but Bob & Sarah impacted my life with their beautiful ways. My best times with Bob is him playing the organ for everyone whenever I asked he never hesitated. And how he would instruct me on how he wanted his photo taken while he played. He didn’t just play, he also gave us the history on the music he played. Just to be in his presence & hear his stories was awesome alone. He told me the wonderful interesting story of how he & Sarah met. My heart goes out to you Sarah & your Family. 🙏🏻🌹🙏🏻
Bob gave me my first job pro audio in the very early 1970’s. I toured as a tractor trailer driver and roadie and helped wire mixers in the Heil factory and fiberglassed speaker cabinets for Humble Pie and The Who in my shop in Marissa. Bob was always kind to me. Even years later. I’m heartbroken that he has passed as I always thought I would see him again, holding court at an AES show or teaching young engineers how to be professional. I was with Bob at the Rock Hall of Fame celebration of his career, and the Sun Colosseum controller that is in the display there, is the first console I made a recording on. RIP Bob, and thank you! Bill
Bob loved our BBQ while he lived in Springfield Mo. proud to call him & Sara friends. My prayers to Family & Friends. RIP my friend
God Bless
Although I never met Bob personally, I knew his Mother and Sister, Barb, when I worked for Mr. Frederic, Ltd. in Freeburg, IL. I remember his family as being a very close and loving family. Barb cut my hair a couple times in Marissa. The reason I remember them is because those were the only times in my life that I received compliments on my haircut.
To the family of Bob Heil, Please accept my sympathy. Joe Walters.
I bought my first guitar at Ye old Music Shop in 1968 a Martin D18. 17 at the time. In those days if you had an instrument most likely you were in a garage band. With no money we would beg Bob to borrow a sound system and he always helped out. My dentist’s office was next to his store and I’d hang out with him after my appointment. I later became a dentist and still play my guitar. Thanks Bob for letting me hang around.
May you rest in peace.
Have been a ham since 1967, my dad was Ham since 1928, we both knew Bob very well. I echo every thing said. Bob was a unique man, so not enough can be said about him.The world was made better by him and will be missed by many, many people. Rest In Peace BOB and make heaven a better sounding place. We have all been blessed by knowing you.
Bob was always the kindest, most helpful person you could hope to meet. Those of us who we’re lucky enough to call him friend can attest to many stories of how he helped ham radio and the sound industry throughout his vivid life. Though he only lived in SW MO for a couple years or so, we got to know him quite well and he was an avid supporter of our club, Southwest Missouri Amateur Radio Club in Springfield. It was always a treat when Bob arrived at an event. He was fascinating to talk to. I will truly miss Bob and his pioneering work. Up until the end he wanted to be on the radio making contacts. He did what he loved until the end. A truly remarkable man and a truly exceptional life lived. 73 Bob. We will take it from here.
I met Bob several years ago at the Sea-Pac ham radio convention in Seaside Oregon. We struck up a conversation after his seminar and history with the rock world. We had a nice conversation with improving transmitted audio quality.
Bob gave me some great advice which I implemented.
Several months later I was working on a project and needed some advice with a microwave video feed and needed to get an microphone signal amplified to line input. Bob had given me his card. I thought what do I have to loose. To my surprise, he answered the phone and told me to buy a stereo mic mixer by name and said they are cheap for what the do. My problem was solved. We spent almost an hour chatting and and am very thankful and honored to meet the gentleman he truly was.
I will always remember his purple sneakers.
Thank you Bob. RIP
What a great guy. I was acquainted with him on his musical side. Man, he was one of the smartest and nicest.people i,ve ever met.
RIP
Just found out Bob has passed away. What friendly guy, talking to him on Ham Radio. We had music and building microphones to talk about. With the Joe Walsh connection, we became better friends. Will be think of him and all the great things he gave us for years to come. Rest in peace Mr. Heil Sound ! KW6LA –
Bro.Bob Heil left his mark on many fields of endeavor and
counted his friends and Brothers in the thousands if not millions.
K9EID is now a silent key but his message continues on.
73 My friend and Brother, WØDN
Hank Cross
Julie, Barbie, Sarah and Barb: To every follower of the Lord there comes a time when they’ll hear Him say, “Welcome Home,”. The joy of being in God’s presence is something we can only begin to imagine. Praying you’ll be comforted knowing “welcome home Bob” has been heard in heaven, as the beautiful memories of our family loved one’s life remain here in our hearts.
I’m saddened by Bob’s passing; my condolences to the family. I had the pleasure of meeting Bob in his shop in Marissa, IL in 1975. I was a freshman in college curious about pro audio systems. While not a person likely to spend any money in his shop, he took the time to show me around, and, taught me how frequency counters were used with notch filters for controlling mic feedback in large PA systems. Bob’s influence on rock & roll is legendary – his positive influence on young curious kids is also legendary. RIP Bob 🎶
I knew Bob as a customer of yours at Billy Sims BBQ in Springfield Missouri, he was always a gentleman and cared about people he Wii truly be missed. Prayers to his family and to Sarah his beloved wife
God Bless. Bob was a Great Man and Innovator. Incredible on every level. I was glad to know him. RIP
I had the pleasure of meeting Bob Heil in the late 1980’s and in the Mid 1990’s had the rare opportunity to sit with Bob for a few hours as the crew was putting in a new sound system it was a thrill of a lifetime to sit and talk with Bob and hear the story of the rock’n’roll sound that he invented. I’ve been fortunate to meet a number of rock’n’roll stars and jazz musicians. But sitting with Bob that day and hearing the true story of the innovation and invention of the sound of Rock and Roll from the true genius and inventor is truly beyond words and a one in a lifetime experience. God rest your soul
I met Dr. Bob in 2016 at Dara Arena. I enjoyed his work with hamnation. Condolences to his family. 73 de KY4GPD
I have known of Bob for several years while I was in the early days of my Ham radio adventure. I remember my dad taking me to see Heil Sound studio in IL In recent times I had a QSO (talk) with him on the 146.850 repeater. I even heard his Grandson talk to him and make contact. His Grandson had recently passed his Ham Radio Operators License. So it was super cool to hear the two different generations have a QSO
Bob RIP and God Bless You!
73,
kb0tnv
I met Bob about 25 years ago but, I knew of him through his reputation since the 1970’s. Bob was an incredibly inspirational individual, who was a positive force in so many lives, including my own. Being an engineer and a “Ham”, KE5BG, I consider myself extremely blessed to have known him.
I met Bob in the ’50s. He was ALWAYS at the top of his game – whatever the game. RIP OM.
We are saddened to hear of Bob’s passing. He and his wife, Sarah went to our church, Antioch United Methodist Church in Springfield, MO for a year or so and they were such a delight.
Bob installed a great sound system in our church for which we are still very grateful.
Bob will be sorely missed by us and so many.
Our deepest sympathy to Sarah and their entire family.
Louis and Carol Erwin
The Summer of 72… My family relocated from Dallas to a small town Red Bud, Ill. I was a HS freshman in need of new guitar strings. I found an ad in the local newspaper for Ye Olde Music Shoppe. My mother drove me to Marissa where I had a near out of body experience.
In a town of 2000 I walked into an oasis of Hammond, Martin, Fender, Gibson, Marshall, Ampeg, Hi-Watt, Sunn…(no master volumes in 1972)!! The Who, Humble Pie, & Rolling Stones memorabilia sealed the deal.
Bob said “come back when you have more time, you can try out as many guitars as you like”. Once I obtained a drivers license I frequented the “Shoppe” a lot. In time I picked up part time work sweeping up, stringing guitars & later speaker re-coning (JBLs, EVs easy, CTS & Jensen not so much). Attending Engineering school in fall & spring then summer work in Marissa, part time in the Factory, then eventually full time at the music Shoppe under new management.
Bob’s vast knowledge & practical real world applications helped so many of us. Quite often outpacing the University textbook theory stuff. Bob’s encouragement and mentoring were major influences in shaping my career. Thanks in part to Bob I built a successful Production company. Bob, always keen to offer advice and guidance.
Before the advent of texting, Bob & I might go a year or two then pick right back up where we left off. That’s Bob!
Around 2011-12 boarding a flight to Las Vegas InfoComm I hear “Hello Stanley”. To my surprise sitting across the aisle I see Sarah & Bob. Sarah looking elegant as always & Bob decked out in purple paisley button down shirt & purple “Heil” converse sneakers. After spending the majority of the flight “catching up” Bob asks if I would join him on a live streaming podcast with Leo Laportec at InfoComm. I asked “what is the topic I’m not a radio buff”? In typical Bob fashion he says we will talk about the “Marissa days”. Well 10 minutes into the podcast Bob (as host of the party) excuses himself leveraging me & Leo to finish the 30 minute segment. That’s Bob!
So many experiences & stories flood back into my mind…
Mississippi River Festival Days, Fox & Lincoln Theatres, his T-Bird collection, Joe Walsh, Sound system designs for The Grateful Dead & The Who Quadraphenia, The Crown Amplifier quest, on & on.
Last year Bob spoke of his battle with cancer. I remained faithful that his recovery would come. He was brave with optimism during text & phone conversations. Saying we would go to his favorite BBQ spot for lunch real soon….
A friendship spanning over 50 years. I am blessed.
Bob Heil: Visionary, Innovator, Mentor, Friend, Father, Grandfather, & Loving Husband.
We are all blessed to have known this kind, loving, gentle, larger than life giant of a man. Godspeed, I love you Bob.
I never did meet Bob in person, but did on occasion correspond with him via email. Wanting to make some audio improvements in the ham shack and looking for suggestions, I took a chance and shot him an email. Knowing a guy like him would probably never have time to respond to a stranger like me, oh the surprise when I got a response back within 30 minutes of my sending. That started a few volleys of emails back and forth over a couple years, with his last email to me around thanksgiving, saying that he had found the right doctor and was moving toward 95% of normal again. Said it was “all behind” him now. Knowing Bob’s nurturing spirit, I’m guessing he knew what lay ahead and wanted to keep encouraging others that all was going to be OK, regardless of the situation he found himself in. May God bless the family of Bob Heil in this time of profound grief!
73 my friend from KE0VFO
So sorry to sarah, his children and the rest of his family on your loss. My stepmother has worked for him for 30 years. He was a great guy and changed the world. I will always remember walking into heil sound when I was younger and seeing Bob at work. He left a legacy for generations to come and around the world. I know Sarah was so proud to have him as her husband and so proud of his work.
May his soul rest in peace.
I have had the greatest pleasure getting to work with Bob as his audiologist. He was so interesting and kind. A true fighter, as well! I was so impressed with his will and determination. He will always be remembered as a favorite patient. Rest in peace, Bob
Our deepest condolences to Sarah and the family. Bob’s curious nature coupled with his innovative spirit and charismatic personality made him a positive force in the world. We were so lucky to work with him. He will be missed, but his memory will live on in the music that was inspired by his inventions. May he rest in peace.
As many I feel the loss of a friend, we spoke many times on our local repeaters, 6 meters AM net on 75 meters. Also enjoying your weekly show on KMOX and most recently Ham Nation. Of course so many memories of you and Sarah at the many Dayton Hamvention trips and NAB. We spoke last when you introduces to your newly licensed grandson last month! As a SIUE alumni, thank you for the seven years of sound production with bands at the Mississippi River Festival which I attend a few times in the late 70’s. So many other things I remember but the most privileged one was nominating you for the Honorable Doctoral degree 10 years ago and the best picture of us together. RIP Bob!
I was lucky to know him.
As Bob was just starting in amateur radio he visited with my brother Paul several times in our basement ham shack. As a youngster I watched with interest the interaction between them all about radio. Much later I earned my radio license.
In June 2023 I contacted Bob about helping us celebrate Paul’s 90th birthday in Florida. Bob graciously invited me to his home museum office. He recounted those early days, showed me some old radio gear, pictures, and documents. But he did sign a card for Paul. He explained the unique features of the electronic organ in the room and played “Misty” just like at the FOX. We are so happy to have these memories of Bob. What a great guy. On Paul’s actual birthday Bob called him to wish him well. Our condolences to Sarah and the Heil family.
Rich Friederich for the Friederich family
Sarah, our thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire Heil family. Bob was such a great friend. I will always treasure his friendship and knowledge. I learned so much from him. He took the time to offer his knowledge and assistance to me, even when I simply an amateur radio newbie. What a great ham and great man! Every time that I make a QSO with one of my Heil microphones, Bob is part of the QSO. It was a honor to know him. I will never forget the last telephone conversation that we had a few months ago. It lasted almost 2 hours, but seemed so quick. Always a pleasure and so much fun to chat with Bob. We love you Sarah! Best 73 & DX, Dan N6PEQ & Violy.
So sad to hear of Bob’s passing….RIP”
Bobby was one special guy. Yes, Bobby. That was what everyone called him when we were teenagers in the 1950’s. I met Bobby when he was 18 and I was 16 and we were attendants in his cousin’s wedding. Bobby’s cousin married my sister – Marissa meets Sparta, where my sister and I grew up. Bobby was best man at the wedding, and I was maid of honor. I’ve know Bobby most of my life and have marveled at his many accomplishments. Bobby was simply the best!
I was deeply saddened to learn of Bob’s passing. My heart goes out to Sarah and the rest of the family members. I first met him at the Dayton Hamvention somewhere around the year 2000, and we become good friends over the years since. Bob was always warm, kind, and considerate to everyone around him, and a true gentleman. He will be deeply missed by so many people that touched and befriended. Rest in Peace old friend.
George Maier – W1LSB
I never had the pleasure of meeting Bob but have used his equipment for ham radio for many years. It has always been the top of the food chain when it came to audio. Just sitting here in my ham shack I have many of his products. His genius and smiling personality will be missed. God Bless you Bob!
Very Sad to hear about Bob. He always put a smile on your face. Met him several times at all the Amateur Radio events that he loved to attend. We all learned a lot from him. He would share his life long secrets about audio perfection.
I took a video of him playing the organ at the Fox theater at the Visalia California radio convention.
He always want everyone to sound their best.
What a wonderful individual! Bob was eager to help newbies like me in the world of amateur radio. So thrilled to have met him ONCE! We’re praying for his sweet family as they experience this great loss.
Thanks Bob! You remain a World Treasure for your thoughtful mentoring and your inspiring example of Righteous Living.
Thanks again… and please High-five the Savior for us all.
Rex
I bought a new FTDX101MP and couldn’t get my Heil headset to work, called HRO, the guy said I had the wrong mike, gave me a model (that I never heard of), so I called Heil at their HQ, lady said she hadn’t either, but that she would have Mr Heil call me. About 10 minutes later I answered the phone “Hi, this is Bob Heil, told my tory, he said, yes I did have the right head set and the guy at HRO didn’t know what he was talking about. Discovered that I had a defective out-of-the-box $4000 radio, took it up with Yaesu. Thought the world of Mr. Heil that he would go to the trouble to call me. Will never forget that conversation of about 18 months afo. May he rest in peace.What a guy. LouW7HX, Sun City AZ
I have found memorries of a man who treated everyone like family of the momment you met. For me that was at the Dayton Hamvention in 2010.
Bob will be truly missed by the Amateur Radio Communiity .
I never had the opportunity to met Bob, but I certainly enjoyed working him on 75 and 40 meter AM. He was very generous to me when mentioning audio quality. My setup for AM uses a Heath DX-40 (with screen modulation!) and an Astatic D-104 mic. Naturally, his audio was great. I also know that Bob was one of a group of AMers who worked with FlexRadio to develop their AM waveform for the SDR radios. I am able to monitor the incoming waveform of stations I work I work on my HQ-110 with a Heath SB-610 monitor scope and I honestly cannot tell the difference between a FlexRadio AM wave and a plate modulated conventional rig’s wave.
Many hams and musicians owe a lot of thanks to Bob and his extensive skills and knowledge. It was an honor to talk with you, Bob.
Bob was and still an inspiration to both the ham and music communities. I personally learn a lot from his videos and books and writings. A great loss but his legacy and teachings will live on forever!
73 BOB !!
The Music industry has lost a truly innovative man. I first met Bob on a cruise involving big dish satellite dealers and automatically became his friend. He was such a kind, gentle humble man that you could not help but like. He invited me to come visit him in Bellevue to see his Home Theatre & home automation business & insisted that I stay at his home. It was because of Bob that I got involved in the Home Theatre business, and later on the small dish & home security business. From then on we always met up at the summer & winter CES shows. I learned so much from him & he was always available to answer any questions that I may have about anything audio/video. I thank God for bringing Bob into my life. Not only as a mentor, but more importantly as a good friend.
My deepest sympathy to all the Heil family. I have fond memories of Bob and his family and of course Ye Old Music Shoppe in Marissa, and later when I would see him in Belleville at the Lincoln or out shopping. He was always cheerful and friendly. My heartfelt prayers are with his loved ones.
He was kind and generous. During lock down times he gave a zoom presentation to my ham group. Just about as nice a guy as you can imagine.
Every day I use his microphones.
He will live on forever in our community.
So proud to have known Bob during my years at SIU, 1968-1970 my junior and senior years. I was in 3 different bands in 2 short years and all the members raved about how knowledgeable and friendly a person he was. Although we were over an hour away from his shop we knew we were experiencing something special. He had just catered to Jimi Hendrix Experience a few weeks before our first time at “Ye Olde Music Shoppe” and spent so much time with his stories about the Grateful Dead, James Gang, and a few other groups. Bob was the largest Sunn amplifier dealer in the country at the time but was more proud of his special 30″ bass speaker in his Thiell ported cabinet, one-of-a-kind, that he had just produced. Later that year we were at SIU Arena for the Bob Seger Silver Bullet Band and Vanilla Fudge concert where he provided the concert sound system and used a pair of those on a round rotating stage set in the middle of the basketball court with 20,000 in attendance. Fast forward a year later I opened my music store with the same philosophy inspired by Bob, a music store “run by musicians with musicians in mind”. I became a Heil Sound dealer in the late 70’s, early 80’s and saw him at the last NAMM show (National Association of Musical Merchandise) held at McCormick Place in Chicago in the mid 1980’s. By the late 80’s my shop had transitioned to a sound and lighting rental company and I lost touch with Bob. He had rebranded his company as well with his HAM radio headphones, microphones, etc. I opened my shop, Soundz Music Shack, in 1971 totally due to the inspiration and influence of Bob Heil and being the incredible role model for so many people. Without his influence I may not chosen this path but today, 53 years later, I am still in business (although semi-retired) providing audio, video and lighting for concerts and corporate AV productions as Soundz A.V.L. in the NW suburbs of Chicago. . He was one of the most influential people in the music industry and was respected by many. I miss Bob greatly and wish condolences to his family. RIP, Bob Heil.
My sincere sympathies for Sarah and the family. What a man! BOB Was ……A MAN OF MEN!
He Was the most compassionate, benevolent and concerned human being !
A genius in all respects
it was my honor to call him friend since 1960.
AMATEUR Radio, W0ERE
I met Bob as a representative of Pioneer Electronics when Bob was doing home theatre systems. He was using our Laser Disc players and Pioneer Elite receivers in his systems. Bob was easily the most interesting person I ever met in my years at Pioneer. I recall when he showed me his talk box. He told me about the Joe Walsh Smoker You Drink and The Player You Get album and specifically the Rocky Mountain Way song that Joe used the talk box on. But Bob didn’t have the album. I did. So I went home and recorded it for him. He also told me the Jerry Garcia story about how he got involved with the Dead. I tell that story to this day. I am sorry to hear about his passing. He was a great friend.
I’m shocked to hear of Bob’s passing . I always thought he’d be around forever. I first met Bob at the Colony Pipe shop in Springfield, Mo better known as Bill’s Pipe Shop. Bob was always cheerful, pleasant, and kind. We enjoyed 6 meters before fm. I’ll never forget Bob. He’s above the QRM now. Bob, and all of our 3875 friends, keep watching for me, i’ll be along one of there times. I’ll see all of you soon.