Robert Kuramoto
Dr. Robert Kenji Kuramoto, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, physician, and leader, lived from June 19, 1946, to September 8, 2025. In his 79 years, he enriched countless lives with intelligence, integrity, generosity, humor, and steady love. Known as Bob, Dr. Bob, or BobBob, he will be remembered for his quiet strength and devotion to others.
The son of Dr. Isamu and Ayeko Kuramoto, Bob grew up in Webster City, Iowa, where his father cared for the community despite discrimination against Japanese Americans. Bob honored both his heritage and his Midwestern roots. He was a Boy Scout, an Air Force Captain, and a loyal fan of the Illini and Cubs.
After earning his B.A. and M.D. at the University of Iowa, Bob specialized in Otolaryngology at Indiana University. He served as a U.S. Air Force Medical Officer before beginning nearly four decades of practice at Christie Clinic in Champaign, Illinois, ultimately becoming Medical Director. His career extended into healthcare leadership as Managing Partner of Quick Leonard Kieffer and founder of the Physician Hospital Institute.
Bob and Jan, his wife of 55 years, shared a life of love, family, and adventure. He is survived by Jan; their sons Kenji, Kanno, and Kai; daughters-in-law Rachelle, Becca, and Jen; grandchildren Sam, Stella, and Hana; and his sister Alice.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to La Clinica del Pueblo (https://laclinicadelpueblo.care/donate-to-the-peoples-clinic/).