Robert Francis "Bob" Kolb

Robert F. Kolb, known affectionately by friends and family as Bob, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on September 26, 2024, surrounded by his family. Bob was born in Milwaukee, WI on August 21, 1936 to Irene and Arthur Kolb.
Nothing meant more to Bob than his family. He married the love of his life Geraldine (Gerri) Seidenstricker in 1960 and together they built a family filled with love, faith, family, and a lot of laughs along the way. Their marriage was blessed with four children - William (Amy), Daniel (Elizabeth), Mary Beth, and Timothy (Linda) Kolb. He was a loving grandfather to Alison, Jeffrey, Matthew (Amy), Robert (Claire), Peter, Stephanie, Christopher, Nicholas, Kaitlin, Alexander, and Patrick.
Bob's education at Marquette University laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in accounting. In 1960, just two years after passing the CPA exam, Bob co-founded the firm of Kolb Lauwasser & Company with his respected colleague Larry Lauwasser. Their partnership was characterized by mutual respect and admiration, which endured as they grew the firm into the largest local full-service certified public accounting firm. Upon his retirement in 2002, the firm stood as a legacy of his professional dedication and was later merged with Sikich LLP in 2013.
Bob's professional accomplishments were paralleled by his commitment to service. He was an active member of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC) and served as chairman of the Council of Small Business Executives (COSBE). He also made a global impact through his role on the board of directors for the International Group of Accounting Firms (IGAF). His expertise and leadership were recognized by his peers when he was honored with the Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants' Distinguished Career Award in 1998.
Beyond his professional life, Bob was deeply involved in his community. He held leadership roles on the boards of Westmoor Country Club, Divine Savior Holy Angels High School, Marquette University, and Legatus. His faith played a central role in his life; a member of St. Mary's Visitation Parish in Elm Grove since 1965, he and his beloved wife Gerri found strength and solace in their Catholic beliefs.
Bob's love for life extended to his personal interests. An avid golfer, he was a member of Westmoor Country Club for over 45 years and Quail Creek Country Club in Naples, Florida, for over 20 years. His love for travel took him and Gerri to many places, enriching his life with diverse experiences. Bob was also an enthusiast of trap shooting and found joy in the pages of a good book. His role as a mentor to his 11 grandchildren was one he cherished deeply, imparting his wisdom and sharing in their growth.
Bob's memory will forever be cherished and celebrated.
This funeral was recorded.
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Visitation Thursday, October 3 at St. Mary Visitation Parish 1260 Church Street, Elm Grove from 9:00 AM-10:45 AM followed a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial in memory of Bob to Three Holy Women Outreach Fund, please send a check payable to Three Holy Women Outreach Fund to 1716 N. Humboldt Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202.