Robert L. Gerndt

Robert "Bob" L. Gerndt, 82, of Suring, Wisconsin passed away
July 4th, 2024, peacefully at home in the farmhouse where he
was born and lived his entire life. Bob was born June 7th, 1942,
to the late Mr. and Mrs. Leland and Norma (Nelson) Gerndt of
Suring.
Bob attended Suring Public School graduating with the class of
1960. Bob married Barbara J. Buchert on December 26th, 1964,
at St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano, Wisconsin. Together
they farmed the Gerndt homestead in the Town of How until their
retirement. Bob had a passion for deer hunting and trout fishing.
His children definitely knew not to get married during deer season
or opening weekend of trout season, as he would not be there.
Bob was quite the storyteller and trout were known to have grown
several inches in size during the short walk from the river to the
house; as well as the number caught. Bob was also an avid shed
hunter and spent many hours walking the woods until physical
abilities limited him, amassing over 250 antler sheds. Bob also
enjoyed following Wisconsin sports teams, watching classic
westerns, lawn mowing and caring for Riverside Cemetery for
many years. During retirement Bob and Barb loved going out to
eat in the area, enjoying a brandy old fashioned with the company
of their longtime friends and making many new acquaintances.
Bob was a lifelong member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in
Suring where he served on both the church and cemetery boards.
Bob was baptized on June 28th, 1942 and confirmed on May
20th, 1956 at Mt. Olive. His confirmation verse was John 8:31-32
"If you continue in my word, you are my disciples indeed."
In his younger years, Bob also served on the Oconto County Fair
Board and was a deputy Conservation Warden, along with being
a member of many agricultural and outdoor organizations. He
was a wonderful husband, father, farmer and friend.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Barb; his 4 children
Bill (Donna) Gerndt, Brian (Heidi) Gerndt, Brenda Socha (special
friend, Brian Korpita), and Becky (Chris) Kafka. Six grandchildren,
Ally Gerndt, Kaitlyn (fiancé, Bennet Laubenstein) Gerndt, Stormy
(Andrew) Poeschel, Scout (Mara) Gerndt, Addy (Mason)
DeRusha and Riley Kafka. One great-granddaughter, Darby
Poeschel. He is also survived by his siblings Richard (Carla)
Gerndt, Kathy (Richard) Rupiper, Lee (Bev) Gerndt; brothers and
sisters in law and many nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Hilbert and
Agnes Buchert, sisters-in-law Beverly Burris and Karen Kuntz,
nephew Mike Burris, niece Bridget Matarrese along with many
dear friends.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 13th, 2024 at Mt. Olive
Lutheran Church, Suring, WI from 9 AM until the funeral service at 12 noon with Pastor Michael Paholke officiating. Bob will be laid
to rest at Mt. Olive Lutheran Cemetery, Suring, WI. Gruetzmacher
Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. On-line
condolences can be expressed at
www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com
The family would like to thank the entire staff of Unity Hospice,
especially Cheryl, Dana, Ashley, and Gail for their assistance
during this past year. You were all a blessing. Also, a special
thank you to Bob and Barb's siblings, the congregation of Mt.
Olive Lutheran Church, Pastor Paholke and many friends for your
continued concern, visits, thoughts, and prayers. Your kindness
will not be forgotten.
As Bob would say,
"Be good".