Robert Henry Arndt

Arndt, Robert STOUGHTON- Bob, Doc, Grandpa, Bobpa, Dad, no matter what the name, Robert Arndt was a true original. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, died on Saturday, June 6, 2015 at the age of 72. Perpetually looking for a better way for humans to achieve, was his career, but his mind would never shut off – if it needed to be done, he could design it: Some of his "human factor designs" -- golf ball retriever at the end of his putter, "James Bond switch" in a car to operate an antenna that wouldn't work (which then also turned on the running lights), a tool to help him operate his hospital bed (which he often commented should be redesigned), or a - _________ (everyone who knew him has their own example). Bob received his Ph.D. from the UW-Madison in 1969, where he was a member of the Behavioral Cybernetics Lab, then continued his affiliation with the UW in various forms while also working as an independent ergonomics consultant. As a pioneer in this field he decided a good license plate for his car would be "ERGO", which led to endless questions about its meaning which Bob seemed to delight in. At the age of 22, Bob married Connie Clark, both from Eau Claire, Wis. For 22 years Bob and Connie shared and enjoyed going to softball games, playing bridge, bowling in McFarland and memorable family vacations with their three children, Steve, Sandy and Chrissy. In 1987, Connie, who also fought a courageous battle with cancer, passed away. He will be greatly missed by his family who gained so much from this remarkable and caring man. He gave gentle advice when needed but also demonstrated the value of "mulling it over". Although not outwardly demonstrative, no one ever doubted how deeply he cared. He said more in a split second with a casual cool smile or a knowing glance (as his daughter-in-law and sons-in-law would quickly attest) than most of us can articulate in an essay. The best of Bob is with us every day through those he loved so much. His son Steve Arndt, who followed in his footsteps in becoming an Ergonomist and inherited so many valued traits such as; the ability to think outside the box, figure out conundrums, and logically think through just about any situation. His daughters, Sandy Rice and Chrissy Watson who learned the value of hard work and practice does make perfect by participating in many of his dance "practice sessions" at home before heading out to amaze the crowd with his polished steps and charming appeal. His partner, Susi Haviland, who for the past six years, not only shared in and enjoyed Bob's life but also enriched it with her spirit. They loved dancing through life together. Finally, Bob is with us every day through the lessons and memories he made with his five grandchildren, who always brought a twinkle to his eye. They will always understand the importance of being safe, especially by the lake, how to take a joke or the gentle teasing that he would often challenge them with, and to appreciate that sometimes people collect unique antiquities such as – bottle openers! Bob also enjoyed spending time with his brother, Tom Arndt, sister, Trudy Cheney, and brother-in-law, Jim Clark as well as their families, who will also truly miss him. Whether it was, golfing, canoeing, playing cards, relaxing or even trying to explain the "Moon Illusion", laughter was always part of the time spent with him. Bob would often retell stories from family vacations, get-togethers, and holidays that would always bring a smile to his face. Bob taught us that, "we should consider looking at all our options" (because he would never tell you what to do), and no matter what the item, in Bob's capable hands, it could be retooled, re-engineered or redesigned to function better. Even if that meant he created a new use for an old item. In his lifetime, he made countless friends and memories, whether at the lake, on the golf course, on the dance floor, or spending time with his family, we will all hold and cherish the memories we have of Bob. His soft caring heart, his knowledge, his love of family, and his enduring spirit will never be forgotten. A Celebration of Life will be held at the STOUGHTON COUNTRY CLUB, 3165 Shadyside Dr., Stoughton, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a service at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, 2015. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the UW Carbone Cancer Center at www.uwhealth.org/uw-carbone-cancer-center. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson Stoughton Funeral & Cremation Care 1358 Highway 51 N. @ Jackson (608)873-4590