Meet Bob Rhea, Tax School Instructor

We wrap up our summer series on 2024 Fall Tax School instructors by introducing you to Bob Rhea. He will be at all Fall Tax School sessions this year (in-person and online) and also team-teaching with Kristine Tidgren an in-depth seminar on Sept. 26, Forward-Thinking Tax Solutions for Farm Clients. Like the others we featured before him, Bob Rhea is a jewel and we’re so proud to have him as part of this special team of instructors.

Bob Rhea, EA, has been associated with the Tax School since 2005 as an instructor and reviewer for the University of Illinois Federal Tax Workbook. Since 1984, he has assisted farm clients with accounting, tax, and consulting services in west-central Illinois through the University of Illinois FBFM program. He served as CEO of FBFM from 2019-2024 and is now an Advisor. Bob completed 18 years as the national executive director for his professional organization, NAFBAS. He serves as chairman of the board for John Wood Community College, was named to the JWCC Hall of Fame 2024 class, and is a board member for United Community Bank. Bob received his bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University and Master’s degree from the University of Illinois. Bob resides in Camp Point; family includes his wife, Debbie, 3 children Tracy, Casey, Ashley, their spouses and seven grandsons.

How long have you been preparing taxes? Have you always specialized in agriculture?

I recently celebrated 40 years of service with Illinois FBFM. This was after teaching high school for two years.

When did you begin your career with Illinois FBFM and in what capacity?

July 1, 1984 as field staff in western Illinois which involved accounting, tax planning & preparation, and benchmarking business performance for clients in four counties

Describe how your role at FBFM has developed over the years.

My role has been to serve the growing and changing needs of clients with an increased emphasis on strategic tax planning. Like most tax professionals, you progress with your clients and learn from each other.  I was named Chief Executive Officer on Dec 12, 2019. In that role I was responsible for designing and executing our strategic plan, gaining financial progress, making our staff successful, and meeting the needs of our members.

When did you first become involved with Tax School as an instructor.

I initially became involved with Tax School in 2015 reviewing the workbook and part-time instruction. I moved to full-time teaching as a Fall Tax School instructor in 2018. Today, I continue to edit the ag chapter of the Federal Tax Workbook, review other chapters, and mostly full-time instruction with Fall Tax School (not quite full-time the last three years due to my Illinois FBFM duties).

What makes team-teaching at Fall Tax School with Jerry Brune so fun and interesting? 

Jerry has many relevant experiences to share, enjoys a good joke, and strives to provide the best information with great detail and real-life examples.  Even when I ask a random, unprepared question he always connects to the content.

When you’re not preparing taxes or teaching for Tax School, what do you like to do for fun and relaxation? 

Debbie and I have three children: Tracy – Jr. High Principal and coach, Casey – Trig & Calculus teacher and coach, Ashley – a 6th grade English teacher (and former volleyball coach). They’re all in the same district. Everyone lives in Camp Point. We also have seven grandsons who have varying interests to keep our days lively

Describe your on-the-side profession as a sports commentator in your hometown, how long you’ve been doing that, and why you like it so much. 

I’ve been announcing sports (mainly football) for Central High School in Camp Point, Illinois since about 2002 when our son Casey was the football Quarterback.  I enjoy the excitement of the game, the unscripted next thing to say, and recognizing student-athletes in the best manner.  Calling three state football championship games has been fun too! I also announced for high school volleyball for a few years and am the official scorekeeper for boys’ basketball games.

Cubs or Cards?

Cards