Robert Alfred Holzbach

Robert Alfred Holzbach, of Shawano, Wis., passed Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. Robert was born to Edgar and Helen (née Oling) Holzbach Dec. 17, 1935. The family resided in Riverdale, Illinois. Chicago was always in his heart. Robert attended Purdue University and was a member of Pi Tau Sigma, an engineering fraternity and graduated with a B.S. in mechanical engineering, Then Robert obtained his master's in business administration from Northwestern University. He met the love of his life, Joan (née Recely), while the two worked at Allis Chalmers in West Allis, and they married January 31, 1959. In 1965, their dream of becoming parents was started with welcoming Jacqueline; and four years later in 1969 welcoming William. The family lived in Palatine, Ill., while Robert did consulting work, then moved to Fond du Lac to manage a plumbing and heating business, Plumbers Supply Inc. With a promotion came a move to Springfield, Ill., managing the headquarter business. But fate brought them back to Fond du Lac and Robert and Joan bought Plumbers Supply. The company, that grew and changed with the times, is still active, run by William under the name Advanced Water Treatment.
Robert and Joan loved to travel. In addition to many trips to Europe, they enjoyed Hawaii, Cancun and other beautiful destinations. A favorite weekend getaway was Chicago, where they met up with their close group of friends. When the children were young, they spent weeks up in northern Wisconsin camping, Kentuck Lake in Eagle River being one of Robert's favorite campgrounds. Robert loved to fish; many vacations were planned around favorite lakes. He also loved to hunt birds with Joan and deer with his children and grandchildren. He bought adjacent hunting ground so the whole family could spend the time together. Robert and Joan loved to entertain and welcome friends into the home for homemade cuisine and camaraderie. Not to mention a martini or two. They were known for their pies and enjoyed preparing them together. The couple loved decorating together, offering décor for every season. At Christmas, the two enjoyed decorating their many Christmas trees, and lighting up the house with holiday warmth.
Robert is proceeded in death by his parents; uncle, Alfred Oling; cousin, Lawrence Weir and other family and close friends.
He is survived by his wife, Joan; children Jacqueline Goebel, St. Germain, and William, Menomonee Falls; grandchildren Anastasia, Oshkosh, and Jonathan, Cecil; and many loving family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held next summer. Gifts and condolences can be sent to Joan at W7917 Shady Ln, Clintonville WI 54929.