Rev. Robert J. Joda

Fr. Robert J. Joda, S.J., was called to eternal life on March 6, 2025 in Wauwatosa, WI. He was 97 years old, a Jesuit for 79 years and a priest for 66 years. Born in Milwaukee on March 28, 1927, he graduated from Messmer High School and entered the Society of Jesus in 1945. He taught at Campion Jesuit High School (1952-1958). After ordination, he earned a PhD in German at Northwestern University. He taught at Marquette University (1961-2011) and spent most of his summers in Germany with Marquette students, sharing with them the German culture along with the language.
Bob's love of music, photography, gardening, candle making, his dogs, and lively conversations were just a few of his pleasures. He moved to St. Camillus Jesuit Community in 2012 to care for his health. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Jennie (Besendorfer) Joda, his brother Francis, his brother Thomas (Nancy Riggins), and his sister Patricia Linnemanstons (John). He is survived by his godson Robert King Novara, many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. Bob donated his body to medical science.
Visitation at St. Camillus Jesuit Community on Monday, April 14, at 10:00 a.m., with a Memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m. Livestreaming at beckerritter.com. His cremains will be buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in Milwaukee. Memorials to St. Camillus Jesuit Community, 10201 W. Wisconsin Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.
The family would like to thank the staffs at Froedtert Hospital and St. Camillus Jesuit Community for all their help and care.