Robert Hewitt

Robert (Bob) Wayne Hewitt, a devoted husband, proud veteran, and respected business leader passed away peacefully with family by his side, Friday, January 16th, at the age of 88 following a short stay at Aspirus Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids.

Service will be at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28th, at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Pioneer Cemetery.

Bob was born on November 20, 1937, in Platte, Nebraska, to Ambrose William Hewitt and Mary Louise (Schutt) Hewitt. He spent his elementary years in Nebraska, where he attended grade school before later moving to Wisconsin. In 1955, he graduated from Almond High School in Almond, Wisconsin.

Following high school, Bob proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, stationed at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware, from 1955 to 1959. After his discharge, he continued his commitment to service by joining the Army National Guard in 1963, later resigning his commission as a First Lieutenant in 1970. In total, Bob dedicated roughly 18 years of military service acquiring multiple medals and certificates.

While in Delaware, Bob began his professional career working in the composing room at the Delaware State News from 1955 to 1961. It was there that he met the love of his life, Mildred "Millie" Jackson. The two were married on April 1, 1960, in Dover, Kent County, Delaware.

Bob and Millie moved to Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, where Bob continued his newspaper career at the Wisconsin Rapids Daily News (Daily Tribune) from 1961 to 1966. Driven by a desire to better his family's opportunities, Bob enrolled at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, where he earned two degrees - Business Administration & Economics - in 1970. During his college years, he also worked part-time for the Stevens Point Journal.

That same year, Bob began what would become a distinguished 30-year career with Wood County Telephone Company, in 1970 starting as an Auditor Trainee and advancing through the ranks to Controller, Executive Vice President, and ultimately General Manager. During the 1990s, he also served as President of Cellular Telephone Operations of RSA 7, helping guide the early development of cellular telecommunications across 16 Wisconsin telephone companies. Bob retired in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, steady leadership, and forward-thinking management.

Bob was deeply involved in industry leadership, serving on numerous committees within the Wisconsin State Telephone Association. He served as an Association Director from 1996 to 2000, was President of the Association from 1998 to 1999, and in 2001 was inducted into the Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting impact on the industry.

Throughout his career he also owned and operated multiple businesses within the community, including North American Van Lines, Bev's Floral and a pair of convenience stores.

Equally important to Bob was his commitment to community service. Bob was also a longtime member of the Noon Rotary Club, belonging from 1982 to 2002, and proudly served as Club President in 1999. He also served as treasurer of the Rotary clubs inaugural 'Disabled Boy Scout Troop 105' beginning in 1993.

Bob believed deeply in giving back and was known for his quiet leadership and willingness to serve wherever needed.

Upon retiring in 1999, Bob and Millie purchased a home in Sun City West, Arizona, returning to Wisconsin to spend summers on the home he built on the beautiful Lake Wazeecha before heading south in the winters.

In his free time, he enjoyed playing golf, bowling leagues, and horse racing.

Above all else, Bob's life was defined by his unwavering love for his wife, Millie. Side by side for more than 65 years, their marriage was built on devotion, respect, and quiet strength. Millie was Bob's constant companion, his greatest joy, and the center of his world. Through every season of life, he stood by her with steadfast love and gratitude.

The pair found happiness in the simple moments-side by side, surrounded by the schnauzers they adored and considered part of the family.

In 2024, Bob and Millie made the decision to return to Wisconsin to be closer to loved ones.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Mildred "Millie" Hewitt; his children: Michael Hewitt (Robyn) of Florida, Dan Hewitt (Renee) of Wisconsin Rapids, and Wendy Hack (Mike) Wisconsin Rapids; his grandchildren: Kade Hewitt (Caroline), Aleena Hewitt, Nate Edghill, Noah Hewitt, Keegan Hewitt, Nick Roepke; and five great-grandchildren.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents along with siblings William Hewitt (Florence), Kenneth Hewitt (Joanne), Richard Hewitt (Diane), Doretta (June) Egland (Bill), James Hewitt (Jeannette), Thomas Hewitt (Barb), Judy Munroe (Don), Bonnie Irwin (Roger).

Bob will be remembered as a man of dedication and kindness - a loving husband, a proud veteran, a gentle leader.

His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Roberts name to the Disabled Boy Scout Troop 105.