Robert "Bob" Kuether

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Kuether, who left this world on November 3, 2023, at the age of 70, peacefully in hospice care at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He fought a valiant battle against lymphoma, and his courage and strength throughout his journey were truly inspirational.
Bob was born in Manitowoc on March 18, 1953, to the late Wesley and Aletha (Bateman) Kuether. He was a graduate of the 1971 class of Lincoln High School. Bob attended the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, graduating in 1975. On April 21, 1979, he married the love of his life, Eileen Thull, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in the Town of Kewaskum. Together they shared a beautiful life filled with love and music.
Bob was a celebrated musician in Eastern Wisconsin, leaving a remarkable legacy in the world of music. He led several bands, including the renowned Bob Kuether Band, the Newtonburg Brass Band, and the Schnapps und Tanz Oktoberfest Band. His musical talents brought joy to countless hearts, as his bands played for hundreds of weddings and public events for over five decades, beginning his musical journey at the young age of 16 in 1969. In the 1970s, the Bob Kuether Band was frequently featured on WLUK Television on their Riverside Presents show. In the 1980s, he added a ballroom Big Band that played for many public and private events including for Royal Caribbean in 1988, the Harvest Moon Ball in Elkhart Lake, A Taste of NFL at Lambeau Field, and the Green Bay Packers Christmas Party. Bob also appreciated playing locally with the Ecumenical Brass at the former Holy Innocents Parish for many years.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Bob worked for the Manitowoc Company in the Personnel Department until 1986. He was a passionate collector of antique John Deere tractors, a hobby that spoke to his appreciation for craftsmanship and history.
Bob's memory lives on through his cherished family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Eileen, and their two loving children, Cindy (Andy) Scharenbroch and Mark Kuether. His legacy continues through his six beloved grandchildren, Natalie, Benjamin, Elliot, Samuel, Monica, and Gwendolyn.
One of Bob's greatest joys was living in the countryside of Newton, where he embraced the outdoors with enthusiasm. Bob enjoyed gardening, fishing, boating, and took great pleasure in producing maple syrup. Above all, he cherished the time spent engaging in these activities with his family. Bob also held a special place in his heart for Door County and appreciated the efforts made to preserve its natural beauty.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in Bob's name.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 8100 Brunner Road, Newton. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Dave Beaudry. Cremation will be held at a later date at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel with burial of Bob's cremated remains at St. Thomas the Apostle Cemetery. The family will greet relatives and friends at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church on Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. The visitation will continue at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church on Friday, November 10, 2023 from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. Please share your favorite memory of Bob by visiting Bob's obituary guestbook at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
The Kuether family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the countless family and friends who have expressed their prayers and support, and also a special appreciation to the dedicated staff at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice for their compassionate and kind care during Bob's final days.
Robert "Bob" Kuether will be remembered not only for his musical talents, but for his unwavering love for family, his zest for life, and his dedication to preserving the beauty of the world around him. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, music, and appreciation for the simple joys of life. Bob's memory will forever warm our hearts, and his spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, forever serenading us from the heavens above.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
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