Robert Leo Hein

Robert L. Hein, age 82, of New Berlin, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep at home on Sunday, September 8, 2024.
Robert, better known as Bob or Bobby to those who knew him, was born on April 14, 1942 in Waukesha to Reinette Hein (Reinholz) and Earl Hein, Sr.
Bob enjoyed spending time with his family, especially finding out the latest news from everyone and joking around with them at family gatherings. He was known for his love of the outdoors as an avid hunter and fisherman and for his athletic pursuits in softball, basketball, swimming, and even volleyball.
Bob was a graduate of Waukesha South High School. He worked his entire 40 year career at the Waukesha Motor Company, with the exception of a two year period of 1964-66 when he was drafted and served in the army. He started working in the shop and then took computer classes to move into that area of responsibility for the company, ending his career as a Systems Analyst in 2002.
Bob married Juanita Sand on June 25, 1966, and together they raised their three children, Jay, Jon, and Julie. Bob was also beloved grandfather to Amber, Jordan, Austin, and Amy.
There were many activities and hobbies Bob enjoyed throughout his life. He was an avid outdoorsman. He hunted for deer in the Whitehall and Glidden areas, as well as grouse, pheasants, ducks, geese, and bear. Grilled venison steak on a hard roll and fried walleye were two of his favorite meals. He liked to go camping with the family and fishing. He fished for muskies, northerns, walleyes, bass, and various panfish in the area on Pewaukee Lake, up north on the many lakes around the Minoqua area, and in Ontario, Canada on Fitchee Lake and once on Pakashkan Lake.
When he wasn't hunting or fishing, Bob could be found working out almost every day at the Waukesha YMCA, where he got to know many people over the 75 years he was a member there. He went swimming, used the workout equipment, and played basketball there. Bob, or "Rocket" as he was known by many of his teammates, was also a very talented softball player, playing shortstop for many area teams through the Waukesha Park and Rec Leagues at the Saratoga Complex, and later traveling with senior teams across the country to compete in national tournaments where he won numerous national titles for his age group.
Bob also enjoyed visiting his family with Juanita for all of the different life events of their kids and grandkids. Bob and Juanita spent time together playing bingo and the slot machines at Potawatomi Casino. They were married for over 58 years.
Bob is survived by his wife, Juanita Hein (Sand); his children – Jay (Sara) Hein of Galesville, WI, Jon (Brenda Ericson) Hein of Waukesha, WI, and Julie Fischer (Hein) of Dalton, GA; his grandchildren – Amber Fischer, Jordan (Jackson Faller) Hein, Austin Fischer, Amy Hein; his brothers – Dave (Charlene) Hein, Earl Hein, Jr., Bruce (Linda) Hein; brother-in-law Merlyn "Andy" (Barbara) Anderson as well as many nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Reinette and Earl Hein, Sr., and his sister Barbara (Merlyn) Anderson.
The Celebration of Life for Bob will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at CHURCH AND CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME on 380 W. Bluemound Road, Waukesha, Wisconsin, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with a short service and military honors to follow at 11:00 a.m. After cremation, the family will be working with the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery for burial.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org or at (855) 448-3997.
Rest in peace, Robert, Bob, Bobby, Dad, Grandpa, Bro, Uncle, Rocket. We will miss you and always remember the great memories with you.
Church & Chapel Funeral Service Serving the Family Milw. 262-827-0659 Wauk. 262-549-0659 Online Obit, Condolences, Directions www.churchandchapel.com