Robert Allen Setlak, age 79, of Tomahawk, WI, entered eternal rest on December 10, 2025. Bob was born on December 9, 1946, to Chester and Lillian (Niemiec) Setlak in Wauconda, IL. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Tomahawk, WI.
Bob proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1967-1970. His service included a tour of duty in Vietnam during the Tet Offense. Bob received 3 purple hearts and a bronze star for his bravery. As a decorated veteran, he took the trip of a lifetime on an Honor Flight in 2019.
As a young boy Bob was ambitious in seeking small jobs to earn spending money for his hobbies. Baseball was his game as a youngster. During his high school years, he was the lead singer in a band formed with talented friends. Bob also served on the Lake Zurich IL Volunteer Fire Department. He was a dedicated lineman for Com Ed in northern Illinois, retiring after 26 years at the age of 50. His compassionate and warm demeanor was evident in friendships he nurtured lasting more than 7 decades and his generous spirit in welcoming new friends throughout his life. He was a handyman who could build or fix most anything and always willing to help anyone in need.
Bob loved fishing, golfing and traveling. He started fishing at a young age continuing throughout his life and treasuring his trips to Canada with friends. He welcomed the chance to play any golf course, especially those during the winter in Arizona. His carefree spirit carried us across the country visiting every state except Alaska which remained on our bucket list. Of course, every activity included his favorite cup of coffee with hazelnut creamer.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Leanne, and their children, Michael (Stacy) Setlak of Park Ridge, IL, John (Julie) Setlak of Pittsboro, NC, Kristine (Mark) Edmunds, Maple Grove, MN, and Kari (Joe) Blair, Lee’s Summit, MO. He loved and was extremely proud of his grandchildren, Allison, Megan, Daniella, and Dominic Setlak, Nathan, Jason, and Camden Edmunds, and Zoe Blair. He is also survived by his sisters Elizabeth DiCianni, Janet (George) Ruet, and Karen (Todd) Milstein, brother-in-law Steve Hazelrigg, Marine Corps brothers, extended family, and dear friends.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Lorraine Hazelrigg, and beloved aunts and uncles.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date. If desired, memorials can be made to Grace Lutheran Church in Tomahawk or Kinship of Tomahawk, a youth mentoring program.
Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.nimsgernfuneral.com
Krueger-Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
101 North Second Street, Tomahawk, WI 54487

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