ForeverMissed
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Robbie [Roberta Marie] Waldron, 66, of St. Peters, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2018, at St. Louis University Hospital.  She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Timothy Lee Waldron, their four children: Jonathan (Catherine) Waldron of Clayton; Amanda (Jeff) Kroll of Alton; Zachary (Tabitha) Waldron, and Benjamin Waldron of St. Peters; and six grandchildren: Sarah (10), David (8), and Grace (4) Waldron; Emily (3) and Cassidy (1) Kroll; and Cyrus (3) Waldron.

Robbie was born July 31, 1952, in Alton, Illinois to Herbert and Laura (Ellspermann) Hellrung, who preceded her in death. Robbie’s five siblings survived her: Laura (George) Jones of Fort Collins, Colorado; Flora "Flow" Van Koten and Chris (Clarice) Hellrung, both of Alton; Mary Pat (Fred) Venardos of Godfrey, Illinois; and Joseph (Jana) Hellrung, of Alton.

Robbie attended Marquette High School in Alton and earned her BS in Physical Therapy from St. Louis University in 1974.  She practiced as a physical therapist for 43 years, beginning at Fermin Desloge Hospital (now SLU Hospital) before finding that helping children cope with their challenges was her true calling.  She served mostly in pediatrics the rest of her career. After honing her skills at United Services For The Handicapped, the State School, SLARC, and the First Steps program, her last 30 years were with the Fort Zumwalt School District where she touched countless children’s lives.

Robbie served as a faithful member of Grace Church St. Louis (Maryland Heights) for the past 36 years.  Her dedication to helping children with special needs and their families included using her knowledge and talents to help develop the Special Edition Ministry at Grace Church to offer specialized care and ministry for children with disabilities thus enabling  their parents to attend regular church services. Along with her husband, she co-hosted a Grace Church small group Bible study for the last 15 years.

Robbie’s love for God and family was paramount in her daily life.  To her four children, she was an immensely dedicated, motherly example of Christ's love.  Robbie truly enjoyed life, especially time spent every summer with family and friends in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.  She was a friend to virtually anyone she would meet.

Despite her valiant and difficult battle over the last year and a half with multiple diabetes complications and organ failures, her family takes great comfort in knowing she passed peacefully, is now in her Heavenly Father’s arms, and that they will see her again in heaven. She is already greatly missed by everyone.

To share memories, photos, and reflections on Robbie, use the Gallery and Stories tabs above or Leave a Tribute below. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Grace Church St. Louis (Maryland Heights) in September. Please revisit this page for further updates.

Memorial contributions to the American Diabetes Association are encouraged. (diabetes.org/donate)

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                                Robbie Waldron's Celebration of Life Service


WHEN:                        Saturday, 29th September 12:00 Noon

                                    Noon – 1 PM:Visitation & Memory Tables

                                          Formal Service Begins at 1 PM.

WHERE:                 Grace Church St. Louis (Maryland Heights)

                                              2695 Creve Coeur Mill Rd,

                                            Maryland Heights, MO 63043

                                                Phone: (314) 292-8300

                                                      GraceSTL.org

Enter through the Atrium entrance door under The Grace Logo. Walk straight back through the atrium to the Chapel entrance. NOTE: The atrium chapel is not the main worship center. Hope to see you there!

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August 3, 2021
August 3, 2021
It is hard to believe that Robbie and I met and started dating in 1971, oh my that is 50 years ago! Everytime I think of her, or read old cards with comments, or revisit moving stories here, I realize how fortunate I was to share life with her for 47 years. 

Although certainly undeserving, I am fortunate again and give the glory to God and his loving mercy. Amen
August 4, 2020
August 4, 2020
We remember Robbie's upbeat and gregarious nature as well as her big smile and hospitality. She loved her Lord and her family. And the name of this website "Forever Missed," is very appropriate, as she will be forever missed.

John and Lynne Tomlinson
July 31, 2020
July 31, 2020
Happy birthday Mom. Me and Brittany had a baby today. Can you believe it?? Missing you, but know you were watching down. Bradley Waldron will carry the July 31st torch! So happy we have something for him to relate to you as he grows up without you in the flesh. Love you, miss you, can't wait to see you again.
July 31, 2019
July 31, 2019
Happy Birthday today, Robbie. I always remember this day from many years ago when we would say that today is the start of our birthday "season". I think of you often, especially today.
July 31, 2019
July 31, 2019
I know you are celebrating with our Lord this day Robbie.....but for us down here, you are still very missed. I think of you often as I've said before, when I'm watering the ferns you gave me from your garden, or just walking in the garden and noticing a new one spring up in a different place. I see your smile in my minds eye often. You will always be missed. On the bright side, getting old isn't that much fun. My whole body aches. :)
October 1, 2018
October 1, 2018
We send our deepest sympathy and love to Tim and the Waldron and Hellrung families. We were very saddened to learn that Robbie is not with us and rejoice she is with Jesus! We had such fun when Amanda and Susan were students and best friends. Your servant heart and fun loving personality made others want to be with you. Thank you for sharing your life with us. We are all the better because of your tender spirit.
     Love & prayers,
     Mike & Gail Glover
September 14, 2018
September 14, 2018
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                Robbie Waldron's Celebration of Life Service
WHEN:            Saturday, 29th September 12:00 Noon
                 Noon – 1 PM: Visitation & Memory Tables
                     Formal Service Begins at 1 PM.
WHERE:         Grace Church St. Louis (Maryland Heights)
                       2695 Creve Coeur Mill Rd,
                      Maryland Heights, MO 63043
                        Phone: (314) 292-8300
                           www.gracestl.org
Enter the complex through the Atrium entrance door under The Grace Logo. Walk straight back through the atrium to the Chapel entrance. NOTE: The atrium chapel is not the main worship center. Hope to see you there! Feel free to post tributes below, or pictures and/or memories using the top GALLERY or STORIES tabs, OR THIS tribute section. This memorial website is permanent: robbiewaldron.forevermissed.com
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August 21, 2018
August 21, 2018
We have only known Robbie for about the last three years when we joined their Bible study group. Robbie was always friendly, hospitable and welcoming when we came to their house. She was always more concerned about others than herself. Even though she had many health problems, she was always grateful for everything...family, friends, church. We were blessed to have gotten to know her and will miss her. We love you, Robbie!
Rob and Pam Quattrocchi
August 19, 2018
August 19, 2018
After reading through the many tributes to Robbie, kind, strong, calm, caring, joyful and compassionate, I think back to our days at Marquette together and affirm all sentiments expressed. We would see each other at our Marquette reunions over the years and she would give a glimpse of her busy days helping others with Physical therapy.  Her family pictures also show a very active mom, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.  Beautiful memories of time at the seashore and family gatherings through the years and more difficult times with her illness, all show her grace and strength she has had throughout her life. I offer my sympathy to her family. Robbie will be missed very much but will be remembered by all who knew her.
August 15, 2018
August 15, 2018
I remember meeting Robbie in 1998 when she was my daughter Nicole’s PT at FZN high school. We soon learned we attended the same church for years which started a friendship that I was so blessed to have. I always would see Jesus love coming thru Robbie, she was one of the kindest and most generous person I had the privilege to know. I remember how selfless Robbie was in helping both the disabled and volunteering up at the senior center to bless other people no matter what it would cost her. I also looked forward to Sunday night Bible study at Tim and Robbie home to always help others learn the Bible and bring new visitors to the Lord. I am truly going to miss her but know she is in heaven with a beautiful crown.
August 13, 2018
August 13, 2018
While attending Bible study together and watching you serve and love others so well, you quickly became a role model in my life. Seeing the way that you took care of the less fortunate with joy and a smile on your face was a witness for Christ. We’re thankful that you’ve allowed God to work through your life so you could be a blessing to so many. Miss you terribly, but rejoicing knowing that you are home.
August 11, 2018
August 11, 2018
My first memorable interaction with Robbie occurred when we were both among those who were sequestered to ride herd on Living Word’s eighth-grade field trip to Branson. Even in quasi-chaotic situations with a bunch of teenagers, I got the impression that she possessed an inner calmness and concern for others.

One of the things that always impressed me about Robbie was her quick smile and positive attitude. She laughed easily, and you could tell she enjoyed life as she would often recount experiences of her and Tim during their college days and then later as the kids were growing up. 
Robbie admired her husband. She was a great role model for the family as she seemed to exemplify the Apostle’s exhortation, “Your adornment must not be merely external . . . but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.” 1 Peter 3:3,4.

Lynne and I had the privilege of attending Tim and Robbie’s small group. We were pretty much aware of Robbie’s health concerns from the beginning. First the diabetes, then the need for the first pancreas transplant, then the second, the travel to the various health facilities, the complicated surgeries, the frustration and anguish over medical mishaps, the ominous uncertainties of the future. It is difficult to explain the admiration I had for her as she bravely and repeatedly faced these life or death situations with such quiet confidence, such calmness. The life of Jesus was surely revealed through her character during these difficult times.

We sometimes wondered, Lord why are you allowing Robbie to suffer for such a long time if you are going to take her home anyway? We know you can heal her. We’ve seen miraculous, virtually inexplainable recoveries several times. I don’t have all the answers, but I believe I stand on solid scriptural grounds when I say, “Some sickness is for the glory of God,” (John 21:19 Now this He said, signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God). During these trying times we often prayed that regardless of the outcome Tim and Robbie would experience the power and presence of God in their lives as well as the assurance that He was in control. And even though I don’t understand everything I do believe that, “. . .this happened so the power of God could be seen in him (them), “John 9:3. And we believe it was!

We would be wise to take comfort in Paul’s words, “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully . . .” 1 Corinthians 13:12. We tend to look at things from a temporal standpoint, God sees things from an eternal perspective, far beyond our reasoning capability. One day we will understand, and it will make perfect sense, we just don’t have all the information.
August 10, 2018
August 10, 2018
Robbie is the mother of my best friend, Amanda, who I met in 1999. I have so many amazing memories that include Robbie. Robbie was a mom that you wanted to hang around with. Of course, I love hanging with my mom, but when you hang out with your friends, especially at a younger age (high school and college), hanging with their mothers isn't always something you want to do. But with Robbie it was different. She was wacky and silly - just fun to be around. I can remember us shopping for prom dresses and I got stuck in my dress, we three laughed together so hard it felt like Robbie was just another friend, and not the mom in the group. 

Robbie was most definitely a positive influence on my life. When I attended bible study in her small group she bought me a bible to help me interpret the passages, and she even attended my baptism. She really cared about my relationship with God and I loved that about her. 

She was an amazing woman, wife, therapist, mother, grandmother, and friend. I will miss her smile, her quick walk, and her asking me questions and not waiting for the answer :) She will be greatly missed by so many people.
August 10, 2018
August 10, 2018
O where to begin. I sit here with tears still fresh as I recall this beautiful and precious woman of God. How you will be missed....forever....You have left such an impression on our lives. I was just walking outside and looking at all the ferns that you gave us when you were thinning out your garden. I have memories of you throughout my home, giraffe socks that you gave me many years ago and have been darned over and over, my hugging giraffe wooden statue that sits on our bookshelf. Your smiling face is indelibly impressed in my mind. Thank you dear friend for gracing us with knowing you.
August 9, 2018
August 9, 2018
I have known Robbie since 1999, when I met her son Jonathan (my now husband). She was one of the hardest-working women I'd ever met-- fiercely devoted to her family, and to the children she served in schools and at the special needs ministry she started at Grace Church. I remember her rushing around before the holidays-- wrapping piles of presents, cooking vast quantities of food, and putting the finishing touches on the holiday decor-- be it her trademark "bunny cake", her large lit Christmas village, or the rotating holiday-themed wreaths she hung on her front door. Robbie loved to be around people, especially her family, and she adored her husband Tim. She often told me how smart she thought he was. Holidays were her favorite, as were trips to the beach, where Robbie always seemed to be the first one there in the morning, and the last one to leave. She loved the sun, the relaxation, reading on the beach, and getting to know anyone vacationing nearby. Robbie was an artist (a trait our daughter Sarah inherited), plus a wonderful pianist and singer. Her talents were many, and she never once hesitated to offer assistance to others, even in her last months, as her health was failing. I'm so grateful my children have had the example of such a strong women as their grandmother.
August 8, 2018
August 8, 2018
I enjoyed working with Robbie at EMGE for several years. She was a lady with a sweet spirit and always had a smile. She loved her job and made an impact in many students lives, including mine. She will be greatly missed but I know she is in a beautiful place without pain or sickness.
August 8, 2018
August 8, 2018
Robbie was one of the Best People I knew.....My name is Leah and I was one of her Students in Physical therapy... I had Her Since I was in 1st Grade and She Follows Me from 1st Grad untill I Graduated High School. I am Sad shes Gone... but Happy Shes not in Pain and Suffering anymore.....My Prayers and Thoughts are with You all..
August 8, 2018
August 8, 2018
To a beautiful sister in Christ. You will be sorely missed by me and others whom you've touched over the years. Be at peace now, dear sister, your rewards have started, first by meeting face to face with our beloved Savior. Tim, I know your heart is lighter now in as much you too know that your lovely wife has ascended to peace with a glorified body. I'll be praying for you and your wonderful family.
August 8, 2018
August 8, 2018
I knew Robbie for years as "Boots". She was a true believer and great therapist. I appreciated her honesty with me. Her loss is great for the therapy community. Mary Rice, MS, OTR
August 7, 2018
August 7, 2018
Robbie was one of my “cool cousins” and always made me feel welcome when visiting Alton (we were the Indiana branch of the Hellrung family). My favorite memory was of her wedding and being treated as an adult (9 years younger). My mother Roberta was proud to have Robbie as a namesake and was treated as an honored guest.
My heart is sad for her family and my prayers are for her eternal rest.
August 7, 2018
August 7, 2018
I met Robbie through the Fort Zumwalt School District some 20+ years ago. Her love for her services with the Special Needs students was endless. She was a very amazing lady inside and out. She will be truly missed by many. God has surely gained a great angel. R I P my dear work friend.
August 7, 2018
August 7, 2018
I am thankful for Mrs. Robbie Waldron.
I am thankful for the times I was blessed to spend time with her. I am thankful for the true love she and her husband showed me is possible. I am thankful for her strengthening my faith in our Holy Father. I am thankful for the values she instilled in the love of my life, her son, Ben Waldron. I am thankful that she welcomed me into her family. I am thankful she was kind to me and so selfless as to put her concerns with my ailments before her own. I am thankful she raised such wonderful children that I now consider close and true friends. I am thankful for the family she and Tim created. I am thankful that she made a point to include me in her family. I am thankful for the kindness she showed those with exceptionalities. 
I am thankful for the life she lived and the legacy she left behind.
I am so thankful that God blessed this world with Robbie Waldron.
An example of how Robbie impacted my life and why I thank God for her: The first time I met the Waldron family... Ben and I decided to introduce each other to our families over the Easter weekend, why we picked such a family centered holiday bewilders me to this day. It was Easter Day and I was so nervous I could barely stand it. We arrived early and Robbie greeted me at the door with the biggest hug and the kindest welcoming. I instantly felt at ease just being in her presence. I knew I was going to like her. As the family began to arrive I was more quiet then I've ever been- trying to remember my manners and forget how much my feet were aching (because I just HAD to borrow a pair of fancy shoes for this occasion (which were easily 2 sizes to small)). Robbie paid extra attention to me that day and at one point, after dinner, we even kicked off our shoes together. She made sure I was included. She didn't force me to join in the conversation but rather welcomed me into it. The final thing she did had everyone laughing so hard I was truly put at ease- She handed Ben and I baby Cyrus and told us to smile for a picture. Meeting the new family and I having a picture taken with my new boyfriend and I holding a child was extremely awkward- and amazingly hilarious. As I laughed along with the family I knew that I was receiving a blessing from God in the form of Ben, Robbie and the Waldron/Kroll family. The evening ended perfectly and to this day I credit Robbie with the acceptance and love I have felt from her family ever since.
I am so thankful for her.
She was a woman I admired. I will spend the rest of my life striving to exemplify the strength, love, kindness, acceptance and faith that she showed every single day. I will aim to make her proud and carry on her memory. I wish that everyone could experience, if even for a minute, the love she and her husband shared and the love she had for her children and grandchildren. Her unfailing commitment to her family and her dedication to our Lord were remarkable things to behold.
Robbie's life and legacy are an example to us all. I truly believe she was a gift from God and certainly left a positive and profound mark on all us who were blessed to meet her.
I am thankful for Mrs. Robbie Waldron.
August 7, 2018
August 7, 2018
Her kindness was consistent. I saw her display kindness to people above and beyond that which she received from them. The last thing she said to me from her hospital bed, not long before she passed away, was a compliment. She was so weak, yet she managed to tell me that she thought the top I was wearing was beautiful. It was her that was beautiful. Although we are all very sad to lose her, I am thankful that she passed so peacefully into heaven while hearing worship music with her loved ones.
August 7, 2018
August 7, 2018
When I think of my childhood, I always think of Robbie. We grew up together...you could always find us at the Hellrung house, our house or in the "schoolyard". We often celebrated our birthdays together since we were born only 12 days apart...and to this day I remember teasing her about being so much "older" than me. We went our separate ways during our college years but always kept in touch...I met my husband Gary, a meteorologist friend of Tim's, through Tim and Robbie while in graduate school at SLU. I had the honor of being the maid of honor in Tim and Robbie's wedding and she was a bridesmaid a few years later in our wedding. As often happens, life became busy, we moved to Kansas and lost touch. I will always be grateful for the Facebook years, when we re-connected...and shared many a close match in Words With Friends! What I would like Robbie's children and grandchildren to know is that your caring, loving mom/grandma is the same girl I've known most of my life...she attacked life with a zest and spirit that I will never forget. Rest in peace, my friend.
August 6, 2018
August 6, 2018
I worked with Robbie at Emge. I loved seeing her smile every day and seeing her love on the kids. She also drove my husband to school during carpool when he was in elementary school. She has left a profound effect on the world and will be missed.
August 6, 2018
August 6, 2018
I am so grateful to have been able to have such a wonderful, positive, strong, faithful, kind, caring mother. I am so sad I will have to live without you. It's hard to picture life without you, but I know I can go on because you prepared me for this; for anything life throws at me. You were the absolute perfect role model of a loving individual with unimaginable strength. You lived your life to serve others; a truly selfless person. I want to live by your example. I am so glad the suffering is over, but will miss you every day. I love you mom. - ”your baby boy”
August 6, 2018
August 6, 2018
Robbie and I went through Marquette together. We participated in a lot of the same activities. I can't remember her without a smile. What a kind, giving, sweet person. She did more to help others in her shortened life than many who carry on much longer.

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Recent Tributes
August 3, 2021
August 3, 2021
It is hard to believe that Robbie and I met and started dating in 1971, oh my that is 50 years ago! Everytime I think of her, or read old cards with comments, or revisit moving stories here, I realize how fortunate I was to share life with her for 47 years. 

Although certainly undeserving, I am fortunate again and give the glory to God and his loving mercy. Amen
August 4, 2020
August 4, 2020
We remember Robbie's upbeat and gregarious nature as well as her big smile and hospitality. She loved her Lord and her family. And the name of this website "Forever Missed," is very appropriate, as she will be forever missed.

John and Lynne Tomlinson
July 31, 2020
July 31, 2020
Happy birthday Mom. Me and Brittany had a baby today. Can you believe it?? Missing you, but know you were watching down. Bradley Waldron will carry the July 31st torch! So happy we have something for him to relate to you as he grows up without you in the flesh. Love you, miss you, can't wait to see you again.
Recent stories

Robbie still around in spirit .

August 1, 2020
A Robbie Birthday surprise with Baby Bradley . She still has favor with the angels .          How special to have a grandchild born on her birthday . Special story’s to tell him on his birthday for years to come about his grandma Waldron an how special an kind she was . 

Celebration service

September 30, 2018

Thanks to all Robbie's family and friends who planned yesterday's service.   We felt blessed by all the memories you shared.  She is missed greatly and will forever have made a difference.  Well done thou good and faithful servant Robbie Waldron.

September 29, 2018

Although we did not know Robbie for a long time, she was gracious enough to open up her home and treat us like we had known her forever. 

We often spoke in private of her unwavering faith and love for God in the midst of fighting her serious health condition. 

Robbie's actions and love for others demonstrated to us her incredible character and Godliness. We are very confident that Robbie is now at peace and with our Lord and Saviour.

We wish only for continued healing, hope and love for Tim and the entire family. It was obvious Robbie was a very special child of God, woman for others and she will be greatly missed.

God bless,

Rob and Ria Winchester


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