MADISON - Robert James “Bob” Hanson, age 84, of Madison, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, surrounded by his children and dear friends. He was born on December 20, 1939, in Madison, the son of Delbert and Evelyn (Miller) Hanson.

Bob graduated from Madison East High School in 1957. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served as a military police officer and was a golden glove boxer. After that he worked at Oscar Mayer Company as a butcher for 20 years and moonlighted at many bars as a bouncer.

He was the proud owner of Mr. Robert's Bar for 43 years and president of the Tavern League for nine of those years. Over the years he became a pillar of the east side community. Bob connected with people easily and would assist others in any way he could with no hesitation. He was very proud of his family and loved them dearly. Many of his friends became part of his extended family. Bob enjoyed boating, including his memorable Mississippi River trips, hosting easter events for the kids at the Barrymore, summer bar picnics, golf outings and annual bar Christmas parties. During his retirement years he continued his passion for playing cards numerous times per week with his long-time friends.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Tammy (Jeremy) Wedige; son, Robbie (Vicki) Hanson; stepsons, David Gilbert and Todd Gilbert; two granddaughters, Alissa and Alexyss (Drake); three grandsons, Austin, Ashton and Robert II (Alissa); great-grandson, Marcus James; brother, Gary Hanson; sister, Shirley Crawford; and Jenna (Ben) Johnson and their son, Jace, whom Bob thought of as a stepdaughter and stepgrandson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Delbert and Evelyn; and his brothers, Don and Richard.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024, with the Rev. Richard Thomas presiding. Military honors to follow. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Robert J. Hanson

December 20, 1939 - October 09, 2024

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