Robert ‘Bob’ L. Gerndt

Robert “Bob” L. Gerndt, 82, of Suring, passed away July 4, 2024, peacefully at home in the farmhouse where he was born and lived his entire life.

Bob was born June 7, 1942, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Leland and Norma (Nelson) Gerndt of Suring.

Bob attended Suring Public School, graduating with the class of 1960. Bob married Barbara J. Buchert on Dec. 26, 1964, at St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano. Together they farmed the Gerndt homestead in the Town of How until their retirement. Bob had a passion for deer hunting and trout fishing. His children definitely knew not to get married during deer season or opening weekend of trout season, as he would not be there.

Bob was quite the storyteller, and trout were known to have grown several inches in size during the short walk from the river to the house; as well as the number caught. Bob was also an avid shed hunter and spent many hours walking the woods until physical abilities limited him, amassing over 250 antler sheds. Bob also enjoyed following Wisconsin sports teams, watching classic westerns, lawn mowing and caring for Riverside Cemetery for many years.

During retirement Bob and Barb loved going out to eat in the area, enjoying a brandy old-fashioned with the company of their longtime friends and making many new acquaintances.

Bob was a lifelong member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Suring where he served on both the church and cemetery boards.

Bob was baptized on June 28, 1942. and confirmed on May 20, 1956, at Mt. Olive. His confirmation verse was John 8:31-32 “If you continue in my word, you are my disciples indeed.”

In his younger years, Bob also served on the Oconto County Fair Board and was a deputy conservation warden, along with being a member of many agricultural and outdoor organizations. He was a wonderful husband, father, farmer and friend.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Barb; his four children, Bill (Donna) Gerndt, Brian (Heidi) Gerndt, Brenda Socha (special friend, Brian Korpita) and Becky (Chris) Kafka; six grandchildren, Ally Gerndt, Kaitlyn (fiancé, Bennet Laubenstein) Gerndt, Stormy (Andrew) Poeschel, Scout (Mara) Gerndt, Addy (Mason) DeRusha and Riley Kafka; one great-granddaughter, Darby Poeschel. He is also survived by his siblings, Richard (Carla) Gerndt, Kathy (Richard) Rupiper, Lee (Bev) Gerndt; brothers- and sisters-in-law ;and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Hilbert and Agnes Buchert; sisters-in-law, Beverly Burris and Karen Kuntz; nephew, Mike Burris; niece, Bridget Matarrese; along with many dear friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Suring, from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at noon with Pastor Michael Paholke officiating. Bob will be laid to rest at Mt. Olive Lutheran Cemetery, Suring.

Gruetzmacher Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Unity Hospice, especially Cheryl, Dana, Ashley and Gail for their assistance during this past year. You were all a blessing. Also, a special thank you to Bob and Barb’s siblings, the congregation of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Pastor Paholke and many friends for your continued concern, visits, thoughts, and prayers. Your kindness will not be forgotten. As Bob would say, “Be good.”