Bob Tessmer

Robert Lee Tessmer was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday December 15, 2024. He was beloved by so many, most notably as a husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, cousin, uncle, mentor and friend.

Bob was born to the late Everett and Dorothy (Abraham) Tessmer on June 20, 1947 in Wausau, WI. He attended Wausau High School, graduating in 1965.

On February 4, 1967 he married the love of his life, Kathleen Ann (Tetzlaff) Tessmer at Holy Name Church in Wausau. This marked the beginning of a long partnership where they were blessed to grow up and grow old together. Bob’s pride was his faith and his family. He was a Christian and he loved The Lord. His greatest joys in life were being a husband to Kathi, Dad to Keri and Dina, and Papa to Kala, Gabby and Cayden.

He began his career in sales upon graduation from high school. He held a variety of different jobs in sales, predominantly food service distribution. After his retirement he reentered the workforce as an outpatient therapy transport driver for Rennes Health and Rehab. He was enjoyed by so many throughout all of his employment.

Bob’s hobbies and interests over the years included racquetball, cards, bowling, daily scripture and playing guitar. His biggest enjoyments aside from family were being a servant, leader and musician at church and church events.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Everett and Dorothy as well as his parents in law Edward and Mary Rose Tetzlaff.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife Kathi, daughters Keri and Dina. He is also survived by his grandchildren Kala Rose Tessmer, Gabrielle Mae Somers and Cayden Everett Tessmer-Cooley. In addition, he is survived by sisters’-in-law Patti (Tetzlaff) Poverski and Cindy (Tetzlaff) Jay, as well as nieces and nephews Lisa Chmura, Chad Poverski, Chris Poverski, Joel Kaskavitch, Crystal Maola, Tiffany Rysewyk, Eric Tessmer, and all of their families.

His family is finding peace and comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with Jesus, something Bob had trained for his entire life.

Kathi, Keri and Dina would also like to extend sincere gratitude to family friend Candy Plaza, De Pere EMS, the Brown County Medical Examiner, Cotter Funeral Home, Church of the Incarnation and the enormous outpouring of support from family and friends.

There will be a Celebration of Life service to honor Bob on Saturday, January 18 at 11:00 am. This celebration will be held at Church of the Incarnation, 900 N Mason St, Appleton, WI with a fellowship reception to follow.