Buzz Meyer

Western Springs, IL- Robert “Buzz” Meyer of Western Springs, Illinois passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, at age 72, surrounded by his family.

This ended a long and difficult struggle with corticobasal degeneration, a rare atypical form of Parkinson’s. Buzz is remembered as a loving father, devoted husband, talented musician, and dedicated professor. Those who knew him will miss his wit, humor, warmth, intelligence, and kindness.

Buzz was born on December 4, 1953, in Iowa City to Robert Earl and Patricia Meyer (née West). Buzz married Barbara Meyer (née Bianucci) on August 7, 1976, and the two enjoyed nearly 50 years of marriage. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Illinois and a doctorate from Florida State University and devoted his entire career to educating others. He taught English, film and literature, linguistics, and more at institutions of higher education including Barat College and DePaul University.

Buzz will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Barbara; his children, Carolyn (Julien), Diane (Alex), and Tom; his sister, Jody (Jay); his step-siblings Rog and Jan (Matt); his brothers-in-law Bill and Dave (Debbie); and his grandchildren, extended family, friends, colleagues, students, and bandmates.

Buzz loved performing and seeing live music; if you want to remember him, go see live music and think of him. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, May 3 at 3pm at the Western Springs Village Club, 4221 Lawn Avenue, Western Springs, IL 60558.

Knight Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at www.knightfuneralhomes.com