Robert A. Walczak

Robert A. Walczak, (Bob) found peace and comfort on Saturday November 22, 2025 one month before his 95th birthday. The beloved husband of the late Marion for 67 years. Devoted father of Jan (Chuck) Cording and Jill (Rich) Bosko. Loving grandpa of Marie (Rich) McCrory, Bobby (Chailey) Cording and John (Ali) Cording. Great grandpa of Ava McCrory, Reighn Cording and Nick Cording. Further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bob was a graduate of South Division High School and Marquette University. He was a devoted member of St. Roman’s Catholic Church, where he attended daily mass and was an active member of the South Side Old Timers Club.

Bob was a legend in Milwaukee basketball. First as a star guard at South Division High where he led the Cardinals to a conference championship. He was then recruited as a scholarship basketball player for Marquette University. To celebrate, Bob proposed to and married Marion, his high school sweetheart. Upon his return from their honeymoon (a Cubs game in Chicago) his academic/basketball career was interrupted as he opened his draft notice into the U.S. Army. Bob was stationed in Europe serving his country admirably during the Korean War. Bob returned to Marquette 2 years later where he led the Warriors to victory playing against such legends as Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain and other greats of the game.

After being honored with the prestigious McCahill Award as the best student athlete in his senior year, Bob declined an offer to pursue basketball professionally. He chose, instead, a storied career with the National Funeral Directors Association, (NFDA) as the National Exhibit Manager.

Bob’s dedication to NFDA and the convention industry led him to serve as President of the National Association of Exhibit Managers, while planning conventions at some of most famous hotels in America

Above all else, Bob valued his time with his family and friends. Bob never missed any of his daughter’s milestones. When the girls were young, Bob enjoyed teaching and playing tennis with them or shooting hoops in the alley with the neighborhood kids. Whether it was “shut box” tournaments or Jart parties, Bob’s NCAA quality hand-made brackets were epic, pitting family members against one another for bragging rights. He took special pleasure in watching his grandchildren grow up. Whether it be sports, academics, cheerleading, Bob was there.

Bob was a "one of a kind" man who will be missed dearly for his quick wit, colorful personality and kindness to all.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the nurses, aides and doctors at Hales Corners Rehab Center and Castle Hospice for the excellent care he received.

A memorial visitation will be held at St Romans Catholic Church, 1710 W Bolivar Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53221 on Monday January 19th, 2026 from 9:30 AM until time of services at 11:30. Private Interment.