Robert J. "Bob" Kustermann

Robert J. "Bob" Kustermann, age 81, born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, of LaGrange, passed away on January 9, 2026. He was born on June 11, 1944, to the late Jerry Kustermann and Irene Dallinger Kustermann.

Bob was a private airplane pilot who traveled extensively throughout his career. He often joked that he had "nine lives," a belief well-earned through extraordinary experiences. He served as a Warrant Officer with the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army, where he piloted a helicopter that was once shot down. For two weeks, his whereabouts were unknown, and during a Fourth of July cookout, military officers arrived at the family's door to report the incident. Bob was later found recovering aboard a hospital ship. On another occasion, while hospitalized in the Philippines, an earthquake sent his hospital bed rolling across the room.

After a life filled with adventure, resilience, and remarkable survival, Bob's "nine lives" came to an end on January 9, 2026. May God bless him.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Sias Kustermann, and a young sister, Joan Carol.

He is survived by his son Shane Kusterman of New York; sister, Germaine Kustermann Hesiak of Illinois; nephews Michael Hesiak (Heather) and Mark Hesiak (Dacia); stepdaughter, Christine "Chrissy" Sporrer (Kevin); grandchildren, Kaylin Sporrer, Charles "Chaz" Sporrer, Colton Sporrer, Camille Sporrer, and Christopher Sporrer; as well as extended family and friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held on January 24, 2026, at St. Peter's Catholic Church, beginning at 1:00 p.m. with Father Timothy A. Gadziala, JCL, V.F., Celebrant. The family will gather for a time of greeting one hour prior to the service at the church.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bob's wonderful home hospice caregivers and nurses for their compassionate care.

Higgins Funeral Home at Hunter Allen Myhand, 706-884-5626.