Service Details
Per Bob’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held by his immediate family.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, remembrances in the form of donations can be made to one of his and our family’s favorite place, and his grandson Daniel’s school, Matthias Academy at matthiasacademy.org.
Robert “Bob” Johnson, 82, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 with his wife of 57 years, Mary Lou, by his side.
Bob was a graduate of Bradford High School and the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. A dedicated teacher, he spent his entire career in the Kenosha Unified School District beginning in 1963. After a year at Frank Elementary and then Jane Vernon, he found his home at Washington Jr. High School where he taught until his retirement. He was fortunate to work with many wonderful colleagues who became his most cherished friends. After his retirement, he volunteered at the Racine Habitat for Humanity ReStore where he met a whole new group of friends to spend time with, all while helping those in need. A talented musician, Bob began playing the drums as a young boy and started working paid gigs in high school. He played with various bands in SE Wisconsin for weddings, parties, and other social events and enjoyed every minute of it.
Bob was a classic dad-joking kind of guy who was always up for telling an entertaining story. He enjoyed spending time with his children and meeting their friends and neighbors and was always ready for a good potluck or party. He loved to hear about the adventures of his grandchildren and their friends and had a great interest in the tales they would tell him. He had a tremendous sense of pride in every single one of children and grandchildren.
Bob is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, his children, Kelly, Kerry, Tim and Pat, and their families; Kelly and Nick Alfano (Brooke and Daniel), Kerry and Brian Gapinski (Jacob, Matthew, and Katherine), Timothy and Toni Johnson (LeeAnn, Megan, and Kimberly), Patrick and Kristyn Johnson (Cody). He was preceded in death by his birth parents, Isobel and Burt Johnson, and adoptive parents, Edith and Peter Martin.
A heartfelt note of thanks to Dr. Ellen Spieiring and the Advocate Aurora Hospice & Palliative Care for their compassionate care and for their assistance with helping Bob move peacefully on his journey. For this we are tremendously grateful.
Laura and Sam Winton says
We were so sad to hear of Bob’s illness and passing and extend our heartfelt condolences to Lou and the entire family. We enjoyed Bob’s company and conversation at family gatherings and know he will be truly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Harold and Lois Solberg says
Our hearts go out to Lou and family. We enjoyed his humor and talents as a volunteer at Habitat ReStore. He will be missed!
Peggy Swiatko Ishmael says
So sorry to hear about Bob’s passing, sending blessings from a “cousin”, Georgia’s daughter. Bob certainly loved and enjoyed his family. It’s all about the love.
Yo says
Hasta la Vista Roberto! ! Via con Dios mi amigo…..”Yo”
Sandra Mortenson Herman says
I was a student of Mr. Johnson’s in 1973, Washington Jr. High, 8th grade English. He was always engaging and interesting. He made me feel special by holding up my papers and complimenting my penmanship, saying “she is even a lefty”. I often thought about him over the years. He was the teacher that truly made a difference. Thank you for that Mr. Johnson!
Kate and Bob Noreen says
Bob was a wonderful co-worker at WJHS. He was part of the energy of the teachers. He will be missed. May he test in peace
Kate and Bob Noreen