We are deeply saddened by the passing of Robert H. Daily, a founding supporter and devoted champion of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep. Bob deeply believed in Cristo Rey’s mission to provide young people with access to a quality education and the opportunity to build a brighter future, and he worked tirelessly to help bring that vision to life in Waukegan.
From the very beginning, Bob was instrumental in establishing the school. Bishop George Rassas recalled that Bob was the one who first reached out to him and asked for help in getting Cristo Rey St. Martin started. As the Bishop reflected, Bob “had been with the mission of the school since the beginning” and was “a hard-working and great man.”
In those earliest days, Bob helped lead the small group that conducted the feasibility study to determine whether a Cristo Rey school could succeed in Waukegan. Simon Moughamian, who joined that initial team, remembered Bob’s tireless commitment. “In the early days, Bob did everything from helping to organize the various committees to painting our first office,” Simon said. “He was a man for all seasons and my good friend.”
Tributes shared on the online obituary page also reflected the impact Bob had on those who worked with him. Joe Villinski wrote about meeting Bob when he first arrived in Waukegan in 2007. “I was blessed to encounter his easy smile and genuine goodness,” Joe wrote. “He welcomed me to Team Cristo Rey with an open heart and a sense that anything was possible.” Joe added that Bob’s “unflagging commitment” and belief in what the school could become “provided the fuel needed to propel those early days forward.”
Because of Bob’s vision, generosity, and determination, Cristo Rey St. Martin has served hundreds of students and families. His work helped lay the foundation for a school that continues to open doors and create opportunities for young people in our community.
We are profoundly grateful for Bob’s friendship, leadership, and dedication to this mission. He will be deeply missed, and his legacy will continue to live on in the lives of the students and families Cristo Rey St. Martin serves.