Robert Stange

Robert J. Stange, 82 of La Crosse, died Thursday, November 6, 2026 at home. He was born at home on Green Bay Street in La Crosse, Wisconsin, on October 14, 1943, to Roland and Catherine (née Weber) Stange. He liked to joke that being born at home saved everyone a hospital bill.

After World War II, the Stange family moved to La Crescent, where Bob grew up with his siblings Mary, Joan, Jean, and John. He graduated from Aquinas High School in 1961 and, showing both patriotism and adventure, enlisted in the U.S. Navy on September 11 of that same year. He served until 1964, stationed in Hawaii at FOCC PAC as a Machine Accountant—a job title he claimed sounded fancier than it was, but came with great scenery.

After returning home, Bob married Lorna and had three children—Joe, Kelly, and Anne—before later going their separate ways. He worked many jobs through the years, but his longest and proudest tenure was 29 years with the U.S. Postal Service.

In retirement, Bob’s greatest joys were found watching his grandkids’ sporting events, eating a good slice of pizza, telling stories of his past or deer hunting.

He is survived by his sister Joan Mutch; his children Joe (Beth) Stange, Kelly (Glenn) Fernandes, and Anne (Dean) Francini; and his treasured grandchildren Zac (Becca), Sam (Sydnie), Emily, and Garrett Stange; Liz, Elijah, Anna, Andrew, and Seth Fernandes; Isaiah (Allison), Benjamin (Karrie) and Caden (Brooklyn) Francini, and 6 great grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings and their spouses: Mary (Bob) Pehler, Jean (Don) Pehler, John (Elda) Stange, and John Mutch; his special friend Kay Witte; his penpal and cousin Tommy McGrath; and other special family members.

Memorial Service will be 11 a.m., Saturday, December 13, 2025 at Blaschke and Schneider Funeral Home, 1501 West Ave, La Crosse, WI. Visitation will be 10 a.m., until the time of the service. Bob will be laid to rest at Oakland Cemetery in Dresbach and a celebration of his life will continue to Boot Hill Pub, 1501 St. Andrew Street, La Crosse, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to a Veterans organization of your choice.

Blaschke and Schneider Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. www.blaschkeschneider.com.