L. Robert "Bob" Peterson
November 11, 1923 - April 04, 2017
Obituary
MADISON - L. Robert "Bob" Peterson passed to eternal life on Tuesday April 4, 2017 from Attic Angel Place in Middleton.Son of Edward and Effie (Buenning) Peterson, Bob was born in Racine on November 11, 1923.Bob's heart was broken in 2012 when he said, "good-bye for now" to Marian, his beloved wife of 65 years. Only a month ago, he lost his only brother, Chuck (Joan) Peterson, which left him the last living extended family member of his generation. Bob is survived by his adoring three daughters and sons-in-law Karen (Mike) Nelson, Kathie (Dave) Schroedel, and Jill (Jim) Kubek. Their family circle was the priority of Bob's and Marian's life. Bob is Grandpa to Chris (Stacy) Nelson, Tim (Jen) Nelson, Amy (Randy) Hampton, Sara (Sean) Sweeney, Sam (Becca) Kubek and Allie Kubek (Alex Hunter). He is Great Grandpa (Papa) to Ahnali Nelson, Clare and Maura Towne, Jackson, Mya and Elaina Hampton, Anna and Nora Sweeney and Cameron Nelson. EACH of these family members was blessed with Bob's wise counsel and unconditional love.At age 20, Bob reported for duty in the US Army. In World War II, he was assigned to reconnaissance in the Battle of the Bulge. In letters home to his parents he repeatedly found something in his experience to describe as "swell." The ability to find the good, even in the hell of war, aptly describes the spirit that remained with Bob EVEN through all the losses of his final years.Bob spent a 39-year career with SC Johnson, beginning in sales and retiring as Executive Vice President. As head of the company's international operations, Bob travelled the world. Despite language and cultural differences, he personally connected with everyone from his driver to factory workers. When fire ravaged an African plant, Bob swiftly summoned the resources to bring the victims to the US for the best burn care available. He named that as his greatest career accomplishment.After retirement, Bob and Marian spent many years in Scottsdale, Ariz., and in Hayward and Hartland, Wisc. They enjoyed life with a wide circle of friends, the closest of which were their extended family members.Following Marian's death, Bob lived in Oconomowoc, lovingly cared for in Karen and Mike's home. His recent move to Madison circled back to the city where Bob and Mar made their first home. There he enjoyed precious time being near Kathie and Jill's families. He also bonded lovingly with the extraordinary caregivers and fellow residents of the Attic Angel community.As we lose his human presence, all touched by Bob's life can carry his spirit of positivity, abiding faith and silly sense of humor. We hope you might honor him with a cocktail and some good cheese or (as was his last meal) a dish of ice cream...or two! And as he told his daughters throughout their lives, "ALWAYS REMEMBER, PEOPLE HAVE MORE FUN THAN ANYBODY!" Fr. John Yockey will preside over a mass in celebration of Bob's life, at Noon on Saturday, April 29th at St. Jerome Church, Oconomowoc. Friends may gather starting at 11 AM and are invited to share a meal at the church following mass.The family would appreciate your memorial of treasure, deed or prayer that best defines your relationship with Bob. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.Gunderson WestFuneral & Cremation Care7435 University Avenue(608)831-6761
Events
Visitation
Sat Apr 29, 2017 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT
St. Jerome Church • 995 Silver Lake Street, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Celebration of Life
Sat Apr 29, 2017 @ 12:00 PM CDT
St. Jerome Church • 995 Silver Lake Street, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Photos
Memories
TW
Todd & Karen Williamson
Other •
I first met Bob while employed at Hayward Marine in the early 90's. Our friendship put us together a number of times in search of the elusive muskie. The attached photo is that of a 41" fish that hit a topwater bait in the fog....(lake not to be mentioned). I will never forget the excitement of that morning, nor the appreciation Bob had for that opportunity. He was a wonderful man and a great friend. Rest in Peace...
Todd, Karen, Natalie & Emily Williamson
HW
Hans Wiesmayer
Other •
Dear Bob,
Thank you for all the good memories I was able to collect for 35 years.
In the early 80th you bridged the distance between a senior manager and the “German exchange student”. I felt welcome in your home, got a tour in the convention center of your company and learned about the “leaking stone”.
Many years and visits later we became friends and discovered a common history rooted in the 2nd World War and the links became even closer. My mother always referred to the good Americans occupying Bavaria giving back freedom and peace.
Some years later I was proud to introduce my 16-year old daughter to you and the dinner in the Golden Mast was just fabulous.
Many more pictures come into my mid and I feel very blessed that I was able to visit you in your “estate for elderly people”. Hoping to see you some day in the place where you are now.
Your sad friend Hans
DM
Deirdre Mick
Other •
Bob, or Mr Peterson as I knew him growing up, was like a second father to me. His daughter, Jill, was my best friend throughout childhood. He & Marian created a very loving & open home where I always felt welcome & loved. I never remember a meal with them where he didn't have a silly joke to tell. And he loved his Lawry's salt. He always encouraged me to put it on my food telling me "it will put hair on your chest" with a wink & a twinkle in his eye. I hope they have Lawry's for you in heaven Mr Peterson.
JW
Jim Wallace
Other •
We want to express condolences to the family. I had the pleasure to know Bob (Mr. Peterson) as I worked at SC Johnson Wax when Bob was National Sales Manager and Executive Vice President. He was a great executive and was able to build an effective sales force, train and develop people, and reward high performers with career advancement.
His knowledge of our industry and his strategic focus was a major contributor to the impressive progress at Johnson Wax.
I also recall with good memories being on the golf course at Racine Country Club and Pinnacle Peak. He was a supreme competitor. His golf game was very good and he was always a gracious host.
Rest in Peace Bob and embrace your reunion with Mariam.
JK
John and Kim Kressaty
Other •
Bob was a great man and friend. He was best friends with my in-laws, Art and Donna Grieshober, and played a huge part in my wife Donna Kim and my careers. Kim and I both treasured his advice.
We will be praying for Bob's family.
KT
Kristine Troy
Other •
Such a fun and loving Uncle! So many memories of all the great times shared with you and Aunt Marion! Your quick wit and infectious smile will be missed! Love and condolences to Karen, Kathie, Jill and your families.
Love, Kris and Joe