Robert Monk

Robert William Monk III was born February 19, 1919 in Glenbeulah, Wisconsin to the late Robert W. and Ruth (Thackary) Monk Jr.  Robert attended the UW Madison, earning his B.S. in Agricultural Journalism.  He was inducted into the UW-Madison's Iron Cross Society, the highest honor an undergraduate can achieve.  During his time in Madison, he met Carol Conant and the couple married December 22, 1939.  He served his country during WWII in the Navy, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant.  The couple had four children; Robert, Thomas, Marcia and Steven.  Robert and Carol celebrated 69 years together before his death at age 90 on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at his home in the Town of Maine.


Robert's first job was in radio, working on agricultural broadcasts.  Later, Robert was well known for his real estate career in the Wausau area.  He founded Security Homes and built many homes in the Wausau area over the years.  


Throughout his life, Robert was extremely active and had many varied interests.  Robert's love of nature never left him and throughout his life, his gardens were a constant source of pride and peace for him.  This love earned him the Lifetime Achievement award from Foxfire Gardens in Marshfield, Wisconsin.  He enjoyed traveling to gardens across the U.S.  These travels often allowed Robert to discover new plants and flowers to plant in his own garden.  During the winter time, Robert could frequently be found skiing on Rib Mountain and was an avid skier into his 80s.  Robert was also a proud member of the American Legion, the Elks and was honored by the Wisconsin Coalition of Aging Groups.


Robert is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Robert W. Monk IV, Thomas (Janet) Monk, Marcia (Randy) King, and Steven (Lynnette Cox) Monk; six grandchildren, Lt. Colonel Jeremiah (Major Kim) Monk US Air Force, Kirsten (Ty) Harman, Heidi (Daniel Walsh) Monk, Katie (Brad Bellows) Monk, Captain Robert W. (Merissa) Monk US Army, and Andrew Monk; one great-granddaughter, Erin; and numerous extended family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his brother, Haslee Fletcher Monk.  


A private family memorial service was held with Rev. Paul Beckel officiating.  Helke Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.


In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Robert W. Monk Gardens, University of Wisconsin-Marathon County, 518 South 7th Avenue, Wausau, Wisconsin 54401.