Robert L. Maes, 64, of Naperville, who started a mold and tool business in his garage in Downers Grove and built it into a $3 million company, died of kidney cancer in his home Saturday, June 1. Born in Chicago, Mr. Maes’ family moved to Downers Grove when he was 3-years old. After graduating from Dowers Grove High School he worked for a couple of years before being drafted into the Army in 1959. He served until 1961, then went to work for Fisher Body as a tool-and-die maker and married his wife, Carole, in 1964. Determined to start his own business, Mr. Maes used his garage for his first business. Eventually he moved to larger locations in Clarendon Hills, Westmont and Downers Grove. He sold the business in 1990 to MXL Industries and stayed on as vice president. Twenty years ago the couple bought a condo-campsite at Lauderdale Shores near Elkhorn, Wis. They visited the site every weekend from March to October. “He loved going there. He spent the whole time talking to people,” his wife said. He was president of the Lauderdale Shores Association. He enjoyed bowling and skiing. “He was always a valued friend to people. He had a kind and generous nature towards all people,” his wife said. Mr. Maes is also survived by a son, William; his father, Lee; a sister Marilyn Amundson; three brothers, Stephen, Michael and Joseph; and two grandchildren. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday in Toon Funeral Home, 4920 Main St., Downers Grove.
