Robert Castle "Bob" Muirhead

Robert Castle "Bob" Muirhead, 92, of Huntley, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 14, 2026. A dedicated farmer, innovative seed corn plant breeder, and pillar of the agricultural community, Robert's life was defined by his deep connection to the land and farming. Born in 1934 in Plato Center, Illinois, Robert grew up understanding the rhythms of farm life and the importance of stewardship of the land. He loved to tell people that he was "just a farmer." Robert had a keen interest in plant genetics and crop improvement, which would shape his life's work. He pursued his passion for agriculture through studies at Michigan State University. Those who knew Robert remember him as hardworking and always with a project or idea on his mind. He found joy in watching crops emerge in spring and a bountiful harvest in the fall. He took great joy in scouting crops from the car each season and always knew the latest weather report. Robert dedicated over four decades of his professional life to Hughes Hybrids in Woodstock, Illinois, where he served as a seed corn plant breeder. His work with Hughes Hybrids took him to Molokai, Hawaii, each winter where, in addition to a few hours in the cornfield each morning, he enjoyed fishing, beach combing and being active in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. In his later years, he took great pride in birding and taking photos for his annual calendar during his frequent rounds through Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve. Many of the regulars in the preserve knew him, and he loved it when a good chat ensued. He particularly loved being the one in the know about the latest developments and plantings that were planned. Once a farmer, always a farmer. Even when he stopped working the land, Robert could be found supervising the planting of flower and vegetable gardens around the house and at the farm. He took great pride in finding a new variety or way to grow something. Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Susanne (Runde) of Huntley; his daughter, Sarah Muirhead Petersdorf and her husband, Mike Petersdorf of Plato Center; sisters, Ruth Carraway, Margaret Marcom Muirhead, and Mary Muirhead; grandchildren, Aaron Petersdorf, Alec Petersdorf, Allyson Muirhead Hayward, Cameron Muirhead; and four great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elizabeth Muirhead; son, Charles Muirhead; and sister, Jean Peacock. Services will be private with interment in the Plato Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Robert’s name may be directed to the Audubon Society at https://act.audubon.org or the Kane County Preserve Foundation at https://kaneforestpreservefoundation.org

Robert Castle "Bob" Muirhead

April 5, 1934 - September 14, 2026