Judge Robert Watson Landry

Landry, Judge Robert Watson Judge Robert Watson Landry, who served for more than 40 years on the Milwaukee County Circuit Court and who had a high level of civic involvement, died on November 13, 2017 at Saint John's on the Lake in Milwaukee Wisconsin at age 95. Among other things, he helped establish the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and Milwaukee's Hunger Hike. He also served on numerous boards including Easter Seals, Sinai Samaritan Medical Center and the American Heart Association of Wisconsin. Robert was born in Madison, WI and lived most of his life in Milwaukee. He served as a Naval Officer during WWII and retired from the Naval Reserve as a Captain. He was elected to the Wisconsin Assembly in 1951 and then the Milwaukee County Circuit Court where he eventually became chair of the felony division of the criminal branch. He was an engaging conversationalist who was equally comfortable telling shaggy dog stories or relating gripping events from the courtroom he presided over. He was athletic his entire life - as a boxer, skier, tennis player, swimmer, runner, wind surfer, triathlete and golfer. He especially enjoyed his retirement living by the shore of Green Bay in Door County. His surviving family members include three sons Robert (Trish), Thomas (Nancy) and David (Mary Jo), three grandchildren (Jack, Emily and Lucas) and his partner of over 10 years, Gertrude Stillman. His wife of over 50 years, Vera Katherine Landry died in 2002. There will be a public memorial ceremony on Saturday November 18 at 2 PM at Saint John's on the Lake, 1840 N Prospect Ave, Milwaukee. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the charity of your choice would be deeply appreciated.