Robert “Bob” Haldeman, 85, of Norwalk died Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2012, at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.
Bob was born Aug. 21, 1927, to Raymond and Lorinda (Felts) Haldeman in Norwalk. Bob married Clara Devine on Jan. 16, 1954, in Wilton. Together they farmed near Norwalk.
Bob was an amazing teacher, father, advocate for all that is good, and an example of what everyone should aspire to be. He was a man of integrity and conviction, whose actions were always accompanied by a smile. And his smile beamed brightest for his children and grandchildren.
Bob is survived by two daughters, Lori (Mark) Haldeman-Mossholder of Tomah and Tammy Haldeman of Norwalk; his grandchildren, Josh (Nichole) Haldeman, Luke Berckman, Jayda Berckman, Becca Jenkins, Macy Jenkins and Melissa Haldeman, all of Sparta; two great-grandchildren, Gavin Haldeman and Deagan Haldeman, both of Sparta; a son-in-law, Matt (Julie) Jenkins of Sparta; his honorary daughters, Kris Tock and Leslie Schreier; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Lois (George) Newman of Wilton, Larry (Donna) Devine of Janesville, Wis., Virginia Faulkner of Manitowoc, Wis., Joyce (Dick) Garvoille of Janesville and Karen Devine of Sparta; along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara, in 2009; his parents; a daughter, Robin; an infant daughter, Lynn Ann; and two siblings, Dorothy and Harold Haldeman.
A celebration of life was Saturday, Nov. 3, at Mount Pisgah Wesleyan Church, rural Ontario. Pastor Bob Streeter officiated. Family and friends were invited for visitation from 1-3 p.m. Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for memorials to be made in his name. It was always Bob’s feeling that a funeral should not be dark and sad. He felt that bright colors should be worn in celebration of the life of our loved one lost. Also, please wear your favorite hat – even to church on Saturday.
The Torkelson Page-Smith Funeral Home of Norwalk is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
