Robert L Oberla

LAS VEGAS, NEV./VERONA- Bob, a strong, loving man, lost his battle to cancer surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017. He was born on Sept. 11, 1935, in Delavan, Wis., the son of Louis and Kathrine Oberla. Bob graduated from Delavan H.S. where he excelled in baseball. After graduating in 1953, Bob joined the U.S. Marines, retiring in 1977 as a Master Sergeant. He married the love of his life, Karen Casper, on Aug. 2, 1958. Bob and Karen raised their family as they were stationed throughout the U.S. After retiring, they moved to Las Vegas where Bob enjoyed playing poker. Bob was an avid Cubs and Packers fan. One of his highlights, while stationed in Green Bay, was marching with the Color Guard at Lambeau Field. Most importantly, Bob loved spending time with family. He was a very active and loving Grandpa. Bob is survived by his wife of 59 years, Karen; sister, Shirley Anderson; children, Kim (Keven) Horwath, Terry (Mike) George, Mary (Bill) Smith and Mike Oberla; grandchildren, Stephanie West (Rhonny), Jimmy West (Stephanie), Ryan Zurbuchen (Alex), Evan Zurbuchen and Kasey Horwath; great-grandchildren, Rhyder and Khyler; and many other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; and grandson, Kyle.  A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Rd., Fitchburg, at 12 Noon, on Friday, Aug. 11, 2017. Burial with military honors will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.  The family would like to thank Agrace HospiceCare for their compassionate care of Bob. Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral & Cremation Care 2950 Chapel Valley Road (608)442-5002