Robert "Bob" Etka

Robert "Bob" Etka, age 98, of Kimberly, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at his home.

Born on April 5, 1927, in Iron Mountain, Michigan, to Raymond and Lena (Teach) Etka, Bob was raised amidst the rugged beauty of Upper Michigan. From an early age, he developed a deep connection to the North American wilderness, a foundation that would shape his life and passions for decades.

At the age of 17, Bob answered the call to serve his country during World War II, enlisting in the United States Navy. He proudly served aboard the USS San Diego, where he helped calibrate the guns on his vessel. His time in the military instilled in him a profound sense of duty and resilience that remained with him throughout his life.

Following his honorable service, Bob pursued a career as an electrician, becoming a proud Union member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). He worked his way through apprenticeship and journeyman status to achieve the designation of master electrician, contributing to the construction of major infrastructure and power nodes across the state. Known for his strong work ethic and willingness to lend a hand, he earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. Bob lived simply but with great purpose, always placing family above all else.

Bob shared 57 devoted years of marriage with the love of his life, Dorothy "Dot" Etka, until her passing. Together, they built a life centered around love, family traditions, and time spent outdoors. Bob found immense joy at his cabin in Florence County, Wisconsin. Whether fishing or hunting, he cherished every moment surrounded by nature, especially when sharing those experiences with his children and grandchildren.

He was a passionate fan of both the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers—his enthusiasm for each game could be heard echoing through the house, regardless of the score.

Bob will be deeply missed by his daughter, Mary Desens; his grandchildren, Rachael Etka, Jonathan (Stephanie) Desens, and Hunter Desens; and his two beautiful great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and happiness. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Jean Kenjesky; his brother-in-law, Thomas Greunke; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Lena Etka; his two brothers, Don and Bernard Etka; his sister, B. Joyce LeComte; his cherished wife, Dorothy "Dot" Etka; her parents, Adelle and Felix Meulemans; and their son, John Etka.

A man of quiet strength and genuine kindness, Bob touched many lives through simple acts of generosity and unwavering dedication to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the memories shared at campfires, fishing trips, family gatherings—and every cheer for Wisconsin's home teams.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

A funeral visitation will be held for Bob from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Jansen-Fargo Funeral Home, 204 E. Kimberly Avenue, Kimberly, WI 54136. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM. Bob will be laid to rest with his wife, Dot, and his son, John, at Holy Name Cemetery in Kimberly, Wisconsin.

Bob’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and other supporting staff at Compassus Hospice for their kindness, care, and compassion shown to Bob during his time of need.