Robert John Tertel, a devoted husband, father and friend, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2024 at the age of 85.

Born on March 10,1939 in Decatur, IL to Otto and Louise (Kovalik) Tertel. Robert is survived by three siblings; Helen Busarow, Lilian Marzinzik and Bernice Mihelsic. He was preceded in death by two siblings; Esther Holtzen and Donald Tertel.

He graduated from Lamphier High School in Springfield, IL followed by earning his BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of IL-Champaign, and his MS from Marquette University.

Robert worked first on the rocket guidance system at A.C. Delco division of GM for three years, followed by 36 years teaching math and science at Racine Lutheran High School. He was inducted into the RLHS Hall of Fame in 2019.

Bob married Barbara Jean Hooper on June 26,1965 in the Lake Mills Moravian Church. They have been blessed with 3 children, Jeffrey Lee (Lisa), Jonathan Andrew (Joanne) and Kathryn Anne (Dave) Wagner.  They also have 6 grandchildren; Cassie Tertel, Cameron Wagner, Mason Wagner, Andrew Tertel, Riley Tertel and Jeffrey Tertel.

Outside of work, Robert enjoyed woodworking, solving jigsaw puzzles, traveling by car to many U.S. sites, spending time with children and grandchildren, visiting with former students and leading bible studies at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. He led devotions on numerous St. John's Half Century bus trips, affectionately known as "Father Bob."

Robert's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched at church, school and home.

Service Details

A Memorial Service for Bob will be held in Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 3350 Lathrop Avenue, Racine on Monday, June 17, 2024 at 4:00PM. Visitation will be in church on Monday from 2:00PM until the time of service.

Memorial Suggestions

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Holy Cross Lutheran Church or Racine Lutheran High School in Robert's memory.