Robert (Bob) Wilmer Rumppe, 83, passed away at home Wednesday Jan. 20, 2016, following declining health.
He was born in Ontario, Wis., on July 12, 1932, to the late Earl and Crystabel (Jacobus) Rumppe.
After graduating from Ontario High School in 1950, Robert served in the United States Air Force with the aircrew of the 347th bomb squadron from 1952–1956, earning the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. Subsequent to serving his country, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1962 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Upon graduation, he worked for Parker Hannifin Corporation until his retirement in July 1996.
Robert was a humble man who loved and gave generously to those around him, always putting others before himself without desire for any acknowledgement. When he wasn’t spending time with his family, especially spoiling his four grandchildren, he enjoyed gardening, working in the yard, keeping busy and watching NASCAR and Green Bay Packers football.
He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Mary Ellen (Dickie) Rumppe; two daughters, Pamela Winstead and husband David of Mebane, N.C., and Sharon Amos and husband Gary of Hillsborough, N.C.; along with four grandchildren, Jonathan Stutts and wife Tori of Holly Springs, N.C., Rachel Stutts of Hillsborough, David and Brandon Winstead of Mebane.
He is also survived by two sisters, Darlene (Gerald) Hanson and Arlene Orethun, both of Ontario; three brothers, Harold (Doana) of Fort Atkinson, Wis., Earl (Eileen) of Antigo, Wis., and Franklin of Kendall; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Alfred, and three sisters, Mertie Beier, Fern Conant, and Mildred Anderson.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, Jan. 26, from 1–1:50 p.m. at McClure Funeral and Cremation Service, 1308 S. Third St., Mebane, N.C . A service to celebrate his life will follow at 2 p.m. in the McClure Chapel. Burial with military honors will follow the service at Mebane Memorial Gardens.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcclurefuneralservice.net.
