Robert "Bob" Lee Matthias, age 83, passed away at his home in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, a place he cherished and called home for nearly five decades. Born on May 20, 1942, in Denver, Iowa, Bob grew up with a strong work ethic and deep family values on a farm run by his late parents, Matt and Leona Matthias. Alongside his siblings-Don, Sonja, and Barb-Bob experienced a rural upbringing that shaped his lifelong character and humility.
Bob's life was forever changed when a high school coach recognized his potential and encouraged him to consider college, even driving him to nearby Wartburg College. At Wartburg, Bob played both football and baseball and, most importantly, met the love of his life, Cheryl. The two were married in August following Cheryl's graduation, beginning a devoted partnership that would span 59 loving years.
After college, Bob and Cheryl began their teaching careers in Osage, Iowa, where their daughter Tanya was born. They later moved to Durand, Wisconsin, where Bob taught science and coached high school basketball, and where their son Brock was born. While in Durand, both Bob and Cheryl began pursuing master's degrees in psychology, reflecting their shared passion for learning and personal growth.
In 1977, the Matthias family settled in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Bob spent the rest of his professional life as a dedicated guidance counselor and special needs coordinator at Howards Grove School District, where he touched countless lives.
Bob was a devoted husband and father, never missing a single game, meet, or event in his children's lives. He and Cheryl sacrificed time and resources selflessly, offering their full support through Tanya and Brock's high school, college, and professional journeys. In Cheryl's later years, Bob became her caregiver, and in her final year, he spent every single day by her side at the Felician Village memory care unit until her passing on July 10, 2024. His care for her was a profound testament to love, resilience, and devotion.
Bob loved education, sports, and above all, his family. He found deep joy in time spent with his grandchildren and in maintaining the home and community he loved in Manitowoc.
Survivors include Bob's son, Brock (Nicole) Matthias, and their sons, Soren and Brody; daughter, Tanya (Ed Kennedy) Matthias, and their children, Owen and Kira; brother, Don; two sisters, Sonja and Barb.
A memorial service celebrating Bob's life will be held 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at First Lutheran Church, 521 N. 8th Street, Manitowoc. There will be no visitation at church prior to the time of the memorial service. Following the memorial service, a Life Celebration Social will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, 620 N. Water St., Manitowoc, located on the south property of the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Bob and Cheryl's memory to the Alzheimer's Association.
Bob's life was one of quiet strength, generosity, and deep love. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
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