Robert (Bob) R. Heussner

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our father, Robert (Bob) Richard Heussner of Fort Atkinson, WI, who died unexpectedly from medical complications.

Bob was born in Joliet, IL on February 5, 1945 to William and Antoinette (Mathers) Heussner. He grew up on a farm in Illinois before his family moved to Johnson Creek, WI just before he began High School.  Shortly after graduating, he joined the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam as a photographer with the 53rd Signal Battalion, capturing vital images from helicopters in combat. It was there he met John Grove and began corresponding with John’s youngest sister Sarah. After returning home from Vietnam, Bob packed up his VW Beetle and drove out to Santa Barbara, CA where he attended Brooks Institute of Photography.  Bob and Sarah married in 1969.  Upon his graduation, they moved to Park Forest, IL where he worked for an advertising firm. Soon afterward they relocated to Lake Mills, WI, purchased a home, raised their family, and hosted many fun and memorable extended family gatherings.  

While in Lake Mills, Bob heavily renovated his first house while working as a machinist at Crepaco, Inc. where he made life-long friends who continued to meet for breakfasts long after the plant relocated.  After winning several national photography contests, including Parade Magazine and Modern Maturity cover photos, Bob returned to professional photography, opening his own business, Studio Victoria.  After retiring from photography, Bob spent several years renovating older homes, three of which are in Fort. He moved into his final house and imbued it with his character, both inside and out. There, his creative, peace-loving spirit flourished like never before.

Our dad was a highly motivated self-learner with a strong work ethic. He never sat idle for too long, always applying himself wholeheartedly to multiple projects - whether it was making stained glass art, building ingenious devices in his workshop, remodeling his house, or pouring love into his garden. He was an artist at heart and expressed himself thoroughly through his creations.

Our dad was also a strong voice for those affected by the injustices of the world. He thrived on the friendships and conversations that were formed with the people he met at the numerous protests he attended. He was a strong supporter of Veterans for Peace and he championed ready access to quality health care for veterans.

We appreciate the many memories we have had with both of our parents. Some of the best memories Joshua had with his dad are storm chasing after school, hanging out at bookstores, bike rides, long chats about life, the many carpentry projects, and the little road trips. Emily will miss conversations on the porch, spending time at local coffee shops, working together in the garden, and exploring new areas and parks.  Rob will cherish time spent together and the strong example set by his dad.

Robert was preceded in death by father William; mother Antoinette (Toni); sister Joan; and brothers John, Carl, and Ron. 

He is survived by children Robert W. (Wendy) Heussner, Emily Heussner, and Joshua Heussner; grandchildren Helen, Robbie, Allie, and Brooke; former wife Sarah Heussner, whom he remained good friends with over the years; siblings Dan (Joyce) Heussner, Carol Wright and Betty (Dave) Waldmann; sister-in-law Percy Heussner and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 5th from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Whitewater - 145 S. Prairie St. Whitewater. Many of our cousins and family members cherished the Fourth of July parties hosted by our parents so we thought it fitting to have one more celebration in honor of him! Come hungry! 

- Rob, Emily, & Joshua

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