Robert A. Wartenweiler, Sr., age 89 of Monroe passed away on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at the SSM Hospice Home. He was born in Monroe, WI on June 14, 1934 to William and Leona (Benkert) Wartenweiler. He entered the Navy on June 2, 1952; where he received his high school diploma while serving the US Navy. His naval service included a six month around the world cruise aboard the destroyer USS Allen Sumner, flagship of the Commander Destroyer squadron 16.
Robert was united in marriage to Donna Severson on January 27, 1957 in Evansville, IN. After serving in the Navy, he worked at cheese factories and got his Swiss Cheese Making License. Later he received his Master Plumbing License and purchased Monroe Plumbing and Heating, Inc.; which he had until he retired in 1996. He was a life member of the Cecil Jones VFW Post #2312, 50 plus years member of the Zilmer Riley American Legion Post #84, as well as 40&8 and Moose Lodge #754 in Monroe. He was also on the Monroe Fire Department for 50 years, and was Monroe’s acting Fire Chief in 1988. He was a founder of the Monroe Fire Dept. Alumni. He took a special interest and played an active role on the fire department.
In his free time, he enjoyed spending time at his cabin near Rhinelander, and spent a lot of time on his land outside of Monroe that he called Warteville.
Robert is survived by his children, Deb (Craig) Holmes of Pearl City, IL, Robert W. (Bev) of Monroe, Kathy (Jeff) Rufer of Monroe, and Wendy Wartenweiler of Oregon; grandchildren, Scott (Jenni) Musser, Andrew (Stacey) Rufer, Mitch Rufer, Nick and Lola Bronchetti; great-grandchildren, Avery, Tylan, Lynzee, Kinley and Kellen; 3 brothers, William (Corrine), David (Jan), and John (Tammie) all of Monroe; he is further survived by many nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and Donna, his wife of 59 years.
Per Robert’s wishes there will be no visitation, private family services will be held at a later date. Shriner Hager Gohlke Funeral home is assisting the family.
Robert’s family wishes to thank the SSM Monroe Health staff and physicians and SSM Hospice Home for their comfort and care; as well as the SSM Veteran’s Support Group, Green County EMS and Monroe Rural Fire Department.
