MADISON - Robert Suddeth Sr., 87, of Madison, Wis., died on June 20, 2025, at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg, Wis., with family by his side.

Bob was born on April 25, 1938, in DeKalb, Ill., the son of Farrel and Vera (Weilert) Suddeth. He spent his childhood on farms in Shabbona, Kirkland and DeKalb with his sister, Barb, and brothers, Bruce and Bill. He was a member of the 1955 graduating class of DeKalb High School. Bob married Joyce Thompson on July 2, 1958, and together they raised their three children, Bobby, Elaine and Greg. They were devoted to their family and included them in all aspects of farm life. Beyond his work as a farmer, he was deeply involved in his community-as a 4-H Club leader, Lions Club member, and Farm Bureau member. After leaving the farm in Illinois, he and his former wife, Joyce, moved to Verona, Wis., and successfully turned their attention to the student property rental business. Drawing on the scrappy, dealmaking instincts learned from his father, Bob built a thriving business, all while making a conscious effort to bring his family along in the process and share his success with them. His vision and hard work were instrumental in upgrading many of the properties on Madison’s famous Mifflin Street. Bob instilled in his children the values that defined his life: perseverance, self-reliance, and the unwavering belief that hard work and determination lead to success. His heart was always with farming and he enjoyed many years as a “hobby farmer” riding horses, raising hogs, cattle, sheep, chickens, turkeys and goats, much to the delight of his grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Bob is survived by his three children, Bobby Suddeth Jr., Elaine Suddeth Gordon and Greg Suddeth; brother, Bruce Suddeth; grandchildren, Shannon (Travis) Anderson, Tammy Fox, Stefanie (Clay) Wood, Zachary Suddeth, Samantha Suddeth, Manya (Merrick) Gillies, Koby Gordon and Brandon Suddeth; and great-grandchildren, Dillon, Bradley, John Riley, Carter, Jasmine and Cloey; and many nieces and nephews who have fond memories of time spent with Uncle Bob. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bill Suddeth; sister, Barb Lindgren; and brother-in-law, Dick Lindgren.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, with a luncheon to follow. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1:30 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

A private scattering of the ashes will occur at a later time. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Porchlight in Madison or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg

Funeral & Cremation Care

2950 Chapel Valley Road

(608) 442-5002

Robert Suddeth Sr.

April 25, 1938 - June 20, 2025

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