Dateline: Monticello, WI
Robert William “Bob” Durtschi, age 89, of Monticello, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 29, 2026. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a loving family, and a legacy of laughter and good times.
Bob was born on November 9, 1936, in the Town of Washington, Green County, Wisconsin, to Fred and Lorene (Bidlingmaier) Durtschi. He graduated from Monticello High School in 1954, beginning a life that would remain deeply rooted in his hometown.
On September 1, 1956, Bob married Donna Feldt, at Zwingli Church in Monticello. Together, Bob and Donna shared 70 years of marriage filled with family, hard work, laughter, and countless memories. Their love grew into a beautiful family with three daughters, Patti, Lynne, and Jill, and eventually grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and generations of family who loved him.
Bob was a businessman and cheesemaker by trade. He began his career making cheese at Escher Brothers in Monticello before eventually owning and operating the Monticello Northside Cheese Cooperative. In the 1980s, he started Northside Fried Cheese, a local favorite that continues to be operated today by his grandson Derek.
Bob proudly served with the Monticello Fire Department for over 25 years and was a member of Washington Reformation Church. He enjoyed bowling, loved a good story, and had a wonderful sense of humor. His quick wit and easy smile will be remembered by all who knew him.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; daughters Patti (Paul) Rufener, Lynne (Tom) Erb, and Jill (David) Klossner; grandchildren Kirsten (Troy Holloway) VanAsten, Derek (Kaitlyn) Hendrickson, Jaime (Sterling) Morrow, Courtney (Andy) Komisarek, Casey (Samantha) Klossner, Karlie Klossner, and Claire (Alex Ryser) Klossner; step-grandchildren Casey (Heather) Rufener and Andy (Shanna) Rufener; great-grandchildren Jack and Ivy VanAsten, Walter and Robert Hendrickson, Finlay and Roan Morrow, Eli and Oliver Komisarek, and Hazel Klossner; and step-great-grandchildren Carson and Dylan Rufener, as well as “honorary granddaughter”, Rylee Disch. He is further survived by his sisters Nancy Aquino and Sharon (Phil) Knobel, along with nieces, nephews, and many friends and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lorene Durtschi; father-in-law and mother-in-law Earl and Myrtle Feldt; sister-in-law Nancy Studer; and brothers-in-law Art Studer and Edmundo Aquino. He was also preceded in death by his special buddies, Ed Riese and Ralph Schuler.
At Bob’s request, no formal services will be held. The family is grateful for the many friendships, memories, and kindnesses that filled Bob’s life.
Memorials are suggested to the Monticello Fire Department, Monticello Historical Society, or your favorite local charity or organization.
The Zentner-Beal Funeral Home of New Glarus is assisting the family.
Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com
