Robert Scott Deist
October 13, 1951 - January 11, 2016
Obituary
EAST TROY/MADISON-Robert "Bob" Deist, age 64, of Madison, passed away on Monday, Jan. 11, 2016, at UW Hospital. He was born on Oct. 13, 1951, in Burlington, the son of Frank and Adeline (Perkl) Deist. He married the love of his life, Terri Jorgensen on Aug. 14, 1982, in Hartland, and they spent 33 wonderful years together in Madison. Bob graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from UW-Whitewater. He played an active role in implementing the American with Disabilities Act. Bob was a lifelong advocate of those with disabilities and was most proud of his collaborative work with the Department of Natural Resources and The Telephone Pioneers to design and build cabins with disability access in the Wisconsin State Parks. He enjoyed history and researching genealogy. Bob was very committed to his family and even throughout his illness he maintained an inspiring sense of humor. Bob is survived by his wife, Terri; son, Benjamin (Melissa Herrmann) Deist; sister, Sandra (Alvin) Lois; in-laws, Mark (Patti) Jorgensen, Lisa (David) Sweeting, Scott (Tracey) Jorgensen, Todd (Pam) Jorgensen and Dawn (Tim) Bell; mother-in-law, Mary Minich; step mother-in-law, Dee Jorgensen; and many loving nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and father-in-law, Arnold Jorgensen. A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 1 p.m., on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, with Father Randy Timmerman presiding. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., and from noon until the time of the service on Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Access to Independence. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608)221-5420
Events
Visitation
Thu Jan 14, 2016 @ 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Visitation
Fri Jan 15, 2016 @ 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Service
Fri Jan 15, 2016 @ 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Photos
Memories
DM
Dan Mimier
Other •
Terry,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you.
Dan
KJ
Kathy Johnson
Other •
For me, Bob was equal measures frustration and sheer exhilarating laughter. He would ponder quietly and calmly (I don't do either) or he could break everyone up with his "weak in the knees" or "suck air" antics. The first trip to DC comes to mind, and playing cards or Trivial Pursuit (Johnny Horton, when no other answer came to mind)! Bob will be missed, he and Teri were always the couple everyone wanted to be with, their love for each other and life made us all feel warm inside. We are here for you Teri.
SH
Shelley Holzman
Other •
Terri you and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers! I can't imagine the loss you are all experiencing right now. Hugs and love to you all! Love, Shelley & Steve Holzman
GP
Gloria Pofahl-Pangman
Other •
Terri and Ben,
So very sad to hear of your loss, you are such a special family and have always managed with strength,hope and humor. I only met Bob a few times, but knew he was well loved by so many people.
I am thinking of you both during this very sad time.
JO
Jen O'Day
Other •
My condolences to Bob's family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Bob was my supervisor at one time and he was always kind and willing to help. I always admired Bob's sense of humor and fighting spirit. It was an honor to know him and work with him. Thank you Bob.
DH
d'neece Hettrick
Other •
"To laugh often and much; to earn the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to leave this world a better place; to know even one life has breathed easier because I have lived. This is to have succeeded”. Ralph Waldo Emerson
It has been a privilege and a blessing to be a part of the faith community of the Bob Deist family for many, many years.
Praise be to God for the blessing of Bob Deist. Praise be to God for Bob's well-lived life. Thanks be to Bob for demonstrating every day...that it can be done.
Peace. Milele.
dneece