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Robert Haack Obituary

Haack, Robert J. Robert J. Haack, a lifelong Wisconsin resident (primarily West Bend, Brookfield and recently Fort Atkinson) and founder of Robert Haack Diamonds, passed away January 22, 2012. A graduate of Rufus King High School, where he was known as a talented trumpet player and "darn swell fellow," he joined the U.S. Marines at 17 and proudly served in Okinawa (1st Division) during WWII. Bob started his jewelry business in 1947, was one of the first to embrace mall retailing in Milwaukee, and later opened stores in Madison and Florida. Ever the adventurer, Bob lived a big life for 86 years - mining for diamonds in South America, operating a charter yacht in the Virgin Islands, traveling the world to buy and sell gems, going on safaris and jungle expeditions, raising ocelots, and constantly pursuing dreams. He loved to run, participating in Al's Run into his seventies. Survived by daughters Anita (Jim) Martin in Lake Mills, WI, Annette (Bob) Bertelsen in Minnetonka, MN and Beth (Scott) Otto in Plymouth, MN; grandchildren Collin (Amanda) and Elliott Chaffin, Derek and Corey Bertelsen, Zachary Schuster and Kendall Otto; great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; friend and former wife Audrey Haack; and countless buddies around the globe. Now reunited (and surely dancing) with daughter Lynne Chaffin Schuster, grandson Alexander, brother Don ("McGee") and parents Erwin and Eleanor. Celebration of Life at Wisconsin Memorial Park Reception Hall, 13235 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, on Friday, Feb. 10, from 3 to 6 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations to National Geographic Society (www.natgeotakeaction.org) or Second Harvest Heartland (2harvest.org). The Dunlap Memorial Home in Fort Atkinson is assisting the family. www.dunlapmemorialhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Jan. 26 to Jan. 29, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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Lynne Larkin

February 12, 2012

To the entire Haack family, my deepest sympathies. I recall the adventurous tales, including oscelots, told by Diana and her family, and am sure Bob has left grand memorihe & will be greatly missed. Lynne Larkin, Vero Beach, FL

Peggy Forsch-Bell

February 9, 2012

Haack family,
You all are close to my heart in thoughts and prayers and memories as you experience this very difficult time.
He was quite a guy.

Darrell McElroy

February 6, 2012

To Bobby's family; I met Bobby through his interest in Industrial hemp so I smile when you mention his dreams. I truely enjoyed his company and though I have not seen Bobby for a couple of years I will sorely miss him. He always asked how I was and never complained if he had his issues and we all do. I always felt better after talking to Bobby. Roll with the thunder Bobby!! Darrell McElroy (Morden, Manitoba, Canada)

Mary Mentzer

February 1, 2012

It sounds as if your dad had a rich and full life. I'm so sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Lori Ott

February 1, 2012

To Bob Haack's family -- my sincerest sympathy;you are in my thoughts and prayers. I have not seen or spoken with him for many years, but remember him fondly.

January 30, 2012

He will be missed by all who knew him and those who never had the pleasure. I will miss his exciting stories about the diamond mines.
Walk with god Bob; Holly Tincher of Las Vegas, NV.

louise wisinski

January 29, 2012

A face we the public have known forever. Your name always stood for quality and fairness. Sympathies to your family.

January 28, 2012

May you and your family find comfort in God, the "Hearer of prayer", during this difficult time.  (Psalms 65:2)

Sue

January 26, 2012

Anyone who ever lived in Brookfield and fell in love, at some time visited Robert Haack Diamonds seeking out a perfect diamond expressing that love; and your personality, Robert, sparkles on our little fingers like a beacon for eternity. Thank you

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