Robert L. “Bob” Wells, age 94, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, formerly of Monroe, WI, passed away surrounded by his family on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 in Wisconsin Rapids.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Wisconsin Rapids. Father David Klutterman will officiate the service. Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Sunday June 7, 2026 at Ritchay Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, as well as from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 8, 2026 at the church.
Bob was born on November 5, 1931 in Monroe, WI to the late Cecil and Lydia (Keller) Wells. Bob attended Monroe High School and graduated as class president of the class of 1949. Following high school he attended the University of Wisconsin La Crosse, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in education. Bob continued his education by earning multiple master’s degrees in administration and used them to become a Teacher and Administrator at Grove School and Lincoln High School in Wisconsin Rapids. Athletics played a crucial role in Bob’s time at Monroe High School and UW- La Crosse. He earned 8 varsity letters in high school competing in track & field, basketball, and football; and lettered 7 times in college competing in track & field and football. As quarterback for UW-La Crosse, he led the team to the Cigar Bowl. Along with Bob’s passion for education, he carried his passion for athletics throughout his entire career as a coach in various sports throughout his life. As track & field coach for Lincoln High School, he elevated the program to a championship level and built the foundation for future success. His impact on the program and initiation of the “Meet of Champions” helped fill the field house full of athletes and spectators. Bob also worked as an athletic trainer for many years and was honored to be an athletic trainer for the 1980 Olympics for the women’s handball and ice-skating teams. Bob’s selflessness and kindness as an educator, coach, and friend allowed him to touch many lives of students and athletes over the years.
Bob reached many others in his life through his involvement in numerous organizations and clubs. He was a board member of the Cancer Society, Wood County Head Start, and The Boys and Girls Club, as well as numerous others throughout Wisconsin. In his spare time, Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing. He made 4 hole-in-ones throughout his life and enjoyed spending time on the golf course with family and friends. Above all else, Bob loved spending time with his family. As active as he was in his community, he always made time for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and loved them all dearly.
Bob is survived by his wife, June Wells; children, Robert P. (Lois Johnson) Wells, Robyn (Howie) Jubeck, Kim (Paul) Mortensen, and Amy (Jon) Steinmetz; grandchildren, Paul (Becky) Mortenson, Rick Mortensen, Eric (Milika) Jubeck, Lindsay (Jim Kennemar) Jubeck, and Olivia (Greg Grohman) Steinmetz; as well as 12 great grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter; and numerous close friends.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Lydia Wells; first wife, Jeniece; daughter, Donna Wells; brother Geroge; and sisters, Ruth, Winona, and Shirley.
