Robert P Gerhardt

Robert Paul Gerhardt, 96, of Jefferson, entered eternal life on April 3, 2020. He was born at home in Fort Atkinson on January 22, 1924, to Paul & Estella (Riess) Gerhardt. He graduated from Blackhawk Public School in 1937, and attended Jefferson High School. Robert joined the Marines in July, 1942, served in the South Pacific, and was discharged in November 1945. He married Dolores Stephan, daughter of Alvin & Anita Stephan, in Jefferson on October 12, 1946. Dolores passed away Dec. 16, 2019, 2 months after celebrating their 73rd wedding anniversary. Robert was a salesman for Stoppenbach Sausage Co for many years, and finished his working career as a maintenance man for Jefferson High School. He was a member at St. Mark's in Jefferson, and served on the church board for many years. He is survived by his sons, Stephan "Steve" Gerhardt, Winnetka CA, and Randy Gerhardt, Jefferson, his daughter Roberta (Greg) Rue, Jefferson, nine grandchildren, Erin (Rob) Juster, Stephan Gerhardt, Morgan Gerhardt, Wendy (Cory) Kopischke, Ethan Gerhardt, Laura Gerhardt, David (Diane) Rue, Michael (Carrie) Rue, Paul (Melanie) Rue, nine great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild due in May, and brother-in-law Harold Bockmann. Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores, his parents, Paul & Estella, three sisters Marie Bockmann, Ruth Gerhardt, Pauline Gerhardt in childhood, and brothers Kenneth & Stuart Gerhardt, both in infancy. There will be a private graveside service on Wednesday, April 8. Visit www.schneidermichaelisfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence or to light a candle in his memory.