Robert E. Liddicoat

MADISON / KERRVILLE, Texas - Robert Everett “Bob” Liddicoat, born July 19, 1946, is no longer “just resting his eyes.” He entered into eternal rest with the Lord on June 4, 2025, in Kerrville, Texas, due to complications following surgery. A Vietnam veteran, loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, and faithful Catholic, Bob lived a life grounded in service, strength, and love.

Born in Madison, Wis., to Everett and Cecelia Liddicoat, Bob was one of six children. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; children, Jarrett (Kathy), Jodi Petersen (Cory), and Kelly Leal (Steven, aka Joey); grandchildren, Isaac and Avery Liddicoat, Katelyn and Tyler Petersen, Kayla Fager, and Gracie and Cameron Leal; siblings: twin brother, Richard; sister, Mary Hansen; brothers, Don (Trina) and Gary (Kim); sister-in-law, Sue Murphy; and extended family and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Cecelia Liddicoat; and sister, Joanne, who passed away just days earlier than Bob.

Together with the love of his life, Linda (Sunday) of 54 wonderful years, they built a beautiful life centered on family and faith. Bob was also a beloved friend to many, especially close to cousin, Judy Nowlen, and Kelly’s mother-in-Law, Kathy Leal, who both traveled and stayed with Bob and Linda numerous times.

Bob proudly served his country in Vietnam, serving in the reserves and U.S. Navy from 1968 to 1973.  Following his service, he remained active with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), committed to supporting fellow veterans and honoring their sacrifices. We want to extend special thanks to fellow Vietnam veteran, Johnny Manning, who saved Bob from drowning in the Mekong River during the conflict.  Bob felt so fortunate to reconnect with the man who rescued him and made the rest of his life possible.

After his military service, Bob began his professional journey in tax accounting with H&R Block, where his sharp mind and attention to detail were a perfect fit. He later joined the family business as an agent with American Family Insurance, where Linda joined him, continuing his commitment to helping others with honest, reliable service.

In the years that followed, Bob and his wife, Linda, opened and operated an Adult Family Home, providing care, companionship, and dignity to those in need-a reflection of their shared compassion and heart for service. Even in his later years, Bob was not one to slow down. He took on a new challenge of learning the ins and outs of day trading and investing, diving into the world of markets with curiosity and determination.

Bob never officially retired-he was always reinventing himself, eager to grow and contribute in new ways. He loved learning, sharing what he knew, and offering help to others wherever he could. It wasn’t just a career path - it was a lifelong calling to serve, support, and stay engaged with the world around him.

Affectionately known as “Papa-Nut,” Bob deeply loved being a grandfather to his seven grandchildren. He took great pride in each of them and found immense joy in their lives and accomplishments.

Bob found joy in life’s simple pleasures. His favorite day of the week was Wednesday-poker day-when he joined his veteran friends at the local Kerrville VFW with laughter, friendly competition, and good music. A loyal fan of the Milwaukee Brewers and an “Owner” of the Green Bay Packers, he never missed a chance to cheer them on (and perhaps place a little sports wager or two for fun). He loved a perfectly grilled steak, a brandy old-fashioned, good music, karaoke, and traveling the world with his bride, Linda.

His Catholic faith became the cornerstone of his life. He and Linda split their time between winters in Kerrville, Texas, with Kelly’s family, and summers in Wisconsin with Jarrett and Jodi’s families. No matter where he was, Bob brought warmth and humor.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. ALBERT THE GREAT CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2420 St. Albert Drive, Sun Prairie, at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, with Father Michael Johnson presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Saturday. A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park, 401 Femrite Drive, Monona, following the Mass.

Bob will be remembered for his humble spirit, unwavering faith, friendly demeanor, smile and the steadfast love for his family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he cherished. And in true Bob fashion, he’d likely send us off with one of his favorite lines, “Come back when you can’t stay so long.” A gentle tease, a warm goodbye, and a reminder that love and laughter were never far behind him.

Memorial donations may be made in Bob’s memory to the Badger Honor Flight or any VFW Post. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420