Robert L. Bothner

Robert L. Bothner

Robert L. Bothner passed away after a short illness on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Tomah Health. Robert was born on October 15, 1947 to Leonard and Eileen (Hansen) Bothner in Wausau, Wisconsin. After graduating from high school Bob traveled the country on his own terms until enlisting in the Coast Guard and served during the Vietnam War.

Once Robert had completed his service he returned to Wisconsin, eventually settling in the Tomah area where he helped out at the VA Medical Center doing odd jobs such as maintaining and repairing wheelchairs and other medical equipment. He was always willing to help others so also spent much of his time at the VA talking with the other veterans and wheeling them to and from their various appointments in that large facility.

Bob was an avid collector of books, movies and coins among other things. His hobbies included tumbling and polishing rocks, photographing plants and wildlife, and creating beautiful artwork with colored pens and pencils. Another favorite pastime of his was keeping track of the weather for our area. No need to look up or watch the weather, just ask Bob and you'd know exactly what the day would bring. As a true Wisconsinite Bob loved the his teams, the Brewers and the Packers.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Eileen, and his brother, Alfred.

He is survived by his sisters: Lois Juhnke, Lynne Archibald, and Bonita Hansen, as well as many nieces and nephews and other friends, including his special friend, Charles.

The family would like to thank the Tomah VA and his care providers for making Bob's final years happy and full.

A Celebration of Bob's Life will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Full military honors will follow. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.